H O P E

Isaiah 40:30-31

Which is more draining to your heart for competition, physical fatigue or a sense of hopelessness and despair?  Many times, these two thieves arrive at the same time.

Isaiah writes about the solution to both fatigue and despair in chapter 40 and verses 30 and 31.  There we read, “Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength.”

In every season, each of us will certainly encounter a time when we’re absolutely worn out.  Our minds and bodies are just drained of strength and even our spirits are devoid of enthusiasm.  These are the toughest moments in sport, because the season will continue with or without us.

This scripture breathes hope into our deflated chests as it points directly to the Lord as the one who renews the body, the soul and the spirit.  This happens as we trust God with our lives.  It comes to us as we place our hope in His love for us.  We’re energized as He renews our strength through daily communion with Him.

As you compete today and you find your legs weary, trust God for a renewal of strength.  Breathe a silent prayer for help when it seems your team is stumbling.  Ask the Lord to meet you at every moment of the competition and you’ll experience His presence and strength.

Bible Reading Plan:
Revelation 11
Job 34:21-37
Micah 1-3