Devotional from January 2025 Christian Union National Fast
By jeff walsh, vice president of christian Union America
“But they who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint."-Isaiah 40:31 ESV
As we embark on this national fast, we are reminded of the extraordinary promise found in Isaiah 40:31—a passage of hope and perseverance. For those who wait on the Lord, there is strength beyond human capacity. During this time of fasting and prayer, when physical weakness may set in, God invites us to draw on His boundless power.
The Call to Wait
The word "wait" in this verse can also mean to hope or trust. This is not a passive waiting but an active dependence on God. Fasting, by its very nature, embodies this active waiting. As we abstain from food, we posture ourselves to rely on God for sustenance. We acknowledge that in our frailty, He is our source of strength.
Consider the eagle, a bird known for its majestic ability to soar high above the earth. It doesn’t achieve this by frantic flapping but by waiting for the right air currents to lift it. In the same way, waiting on the Lord allows us to soar—not through our striving but by resting in His divine power.
Perseverance in the Race
The imagery of running without weariness and walking without fainting points to the endurance God provides for life's journey. Fasting can feel like a marathon. As days progress, hunger and physical challenges can wear us down. Yet, Isaiah reminds us that God's strength is sufficient to sustain us for a day and for the entire race.
Paul echoes this truth in 2 Corinthians 12:9: "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Fasting makes us keenly aware of our weaknesses, but it is precisely in this state that God’s power is revealed. Through Him, we find the perseverance to endure not only the fast but the more significant spiritual battles we face.
Strength Renewed
The promise of renewed strength is a balm to the weary soul. The Hebrew word for "renew" suggests an exchange—our weakness for His strength. This divine transaction happens as we seek Him in prayer, surrendering our limitations and allowing His Spirit to fill us afresh.
In seasons of waiting, we often question whether we have the endurance to keep going. But Isaiah assures us that those who trust in the Lord will not falter. This renewal is not just physical; it is spiritual, emotional, and mental. It empowers us to persevere in our faith, our calling, and our daily walk with Him.
- Are you actively waiting on the Lord? Take time to lay your burdens at His feet and trust Him to provide strength.
- What areas of your life require perseverance? Ask God to renew your strength and sustain you in the race He has set before you.
- How can you encourage others to wait on the Lord? Share your testimony of His sustaining power and invite others to experience it.
Heavenly Father, we come to You today, weak but trusting in Your promise of renewed strength. Teach us to wait on You with hope and trust, knowing You will sustain us in every season. Help us to persevere in the race marked out for us, running without weariness and walking without fainting. As we fast and pray, fill us with Your Spirit and lift us like the wings of eagles. May our lives testify to Your power and faithfulness. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
Sign up to join the Christian Union National Fast currently happening January 2-15, 2025 here.
