‘He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength.’ (vv29–31a) Isaiah 40:25–31
As we age, things slow down. Things such as our healing processes. When I cut myself preparing food, my finger takes so much longer to repair itself. We also face a decline in strength, mobility and energy levels.
Within, however, I confess to feeling a lot more like Caleb. I retain enthusiasm for fresh challenges.
True, I don’t always calculate the odds of my achieving such ideas born of enthusiasm, but gradually God has taught me two things. First, I’m to direct my energy in the most productive way possible.
So, having known a call to prayer which I have taken years to respond to with both enthusiasm and effort I now am highly committed to a daily prayer rhythm that suits me. I have also recognised that I shall enjoy ever-larger amounts of time to pray as my body makes its way towards its inevitable departure from this earth.
Second, when I do what God is calling me to, I feel a fresh vitality throughout my whole being. It’s as if serving God’s purpose rejuvenates me. I really do feel as if I might fly.
Serving God is what we are born for. It is encouraging to know that as we listen and respond to God, there is never a time when we find ourselves eliminated from God’s purpose. Ours is a productive life once we accept that we live under God’s instruction and that, even as we serve God, we become more of who God created us to be.
RELATED SCRIPTURE TO CONSIDER: Num. 13:21–33; 14:24–25; Josh. 14:6–15; 1 Cor. 4:7–18.
AN ACTION TO TAKE: Consider if you want to continue in God’s active service right up until departure for eternity. If so, ask God to continue to use you, renew you and deploy you on active service.
A PRAYER TO MAKE: ‘Lord, help me to live each day serving Your purposes whilst renewed by Your strength. Amen.’
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