ON EAGLE’S WINGS

Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles. (Isaiah 40:31)

Tony and Sharon were stunned to learn that Tony had a progressive disease affecting the brain and nervous system that would eventually lead to death. After the diagnosis, Sharon asked Tony what he was thinking. He replied, “Eagle.” She nodded.

Early in their marriage, they committed to hope in God, especially during difficulties, for then they could “soar high on wings like eagles” (Isaiah 40:31). They had learned that eagles use the winds and what are known as updrafts that come off hills and mountains to lift them higher as they soar in flight. As they faced his debilitating disease, Sharon said, “Tony and I chose to soar above the storm.” Day by day they depended on God’s strength to lift them above despair.

The Israelites to whom Isaiah gave God’s message may have been losing hope as they lived in exile, far from their home in the promised land. God promised them that He never grows weak or weary (v. 28) and that He renews the strength of those who are depleted (v. 29). They needed only to look to Him.

Tony died eight years after his diagnosis, but he and Sharon never felt abandoned by God as they depended on Him day by day, holding tightly to His promises about Himself. When we’re facing physical, mental, emotional or spiritual challenges, may we too look to Him for strength—soaring like eagles.

—Amy Boucher Pye

Jesus, when I feel anxious and afraid, fill me with Your hope and strength as I depend on You.