Passage of the Day:
Lift up your eyes and look to the heavens: Who created all these? He who brings out the starry host one by one and calls forth each of them by name. Because of his great power and mighty strength, not one of them is missing. 27 Why do you complain, Jacob? Why do you say, Israel, “My way is hidden from the Lord; my cause is disregarded by my God”? 28 Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom.29 He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.30 Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall;31 but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint, Isaiah 40:26-31.
Reflection:
Today’s featured passage provides a glimpse into God’s character and nature. Subsequently, whenever you are moved to pray to an invisible God, this cry for help is relying on hope from above. The eloquent words of this Old Testament prophet compare God to a parent of an eaglet. Despite experiencing growing pains as the harsh realities of life set in, those who place their hope in the Lord will have their strength renewed. Like experiencing a second wind of energy on a grueling day at school or work, placing your hope in the God above will provide for all your needs.
Prayerful Action:
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus, Philippians 4:6-7.
Clinging to a Glimmer of Hope this Fall:
As I was attending seminary to complete a master’s in theology, I wasn’t sure how I would apply this knowledge. However, when a local chapter of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes asked for a volunteer to present a pregame speech for a visiting college football team, I spoke twice. Serving as a sports chaplain intrigued me. My first speech reminded players of a former Ole Miss cornerback who eventually died due to complications from an injury sustained playing college football. Chucky Mullins became an inspirational speaker, motivating his teammates to never give up hope and to keep fighting. As a Christian, this is what the words of Isaiah has done for me, finding hope from above whenever I turn to the Lord in prayer.
Song of the Day:
Final Thoughts:
Today’s song comes from my favorite alternative Christian praise album of all time. May the lyrics of There is No One Like You inspire you to place your hope in the God who reigns above.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 