They that wait upon the Lord verse

"But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint." — Isaiah 40:31 (KJV)

      This verse is one of the most cherished promises in the Bible, offering hope, encouragement, and assurance to those who trust in God. It speaks of renewal, endurance, and divine empowerment. Let’s take a deep dive into its meaning.

Breaking Down Isaiah 40:31

1. “They that wait upon the Lord”

      The saying "wait upon the Lord" does not mean passive waiting, but rather an active, expectant trust in God. In Hebrew, the word “qavah” means to hope, expect, or trust. It implies a confident anticipation of God’s help.

      Waiting on the Lord involves:

● Faith – Believing that God is in control and will act in His perfect timing.

● Patience – Not rushing ahead of God, but surrendering to His plans.

● Prayer – Seeking God’s guidance and strength daily.

● Obedience – Aligning our lives with His will, even when we don’t see immediate results.

      Many times in Scripture, waiting on the Lord is linked to receiving His blessings (Psalm 27:14, Lamentations 3:25). God is never late; He knows the right moment to act in our lives.

2. “Shall renew their strength”

      Life’s burdens can drain us physically, emotionally, and spiritually. But this verse promises that those who trust in God will be renewed. The word "renew" in Hebrew (chalaph) means to exchange or replace.

      This means that when we come to God in weakness, He exchanges our weariness for His divine strength. Paul echoes this truth in 2 Corinthians 12:9, where God tells him, “My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness.”

      Instead of relying on our limited strength, we receive fresh energy from God. This is a supernatural empowerment, helping us endure trials and challenges.

3. “They shall mount up with wings as eagles”

      Eagles are known for their ability to soar above storms rather than be trapped by them. Unlike other birds that flap their wings frantically, eagles use the wind’s power to rise higher effortlessly.

      Similarly, those who wait on God rise above their troubles instead of being crushed by them. Instead of struggling in their strength, they rely on God’s power to carry them through.

      This imagery also reminds us that God’s strength lifts us to new spiritual heights, giving us a broader perspective on life. Like an eagle looking down from above, we see our problems in light of God’s sovereignty.

4. “They shall run, and not be weary”

      This part of the verse speaks of endurance. Life’s race can be exhausting, especially when we face trials, disappointments, or spiritual attacks. However, God promises that those who trust in Him will keep running without growing weary.

      This applies to:

● Spiritual endurance – Staying faithful in prayer, reading the Bible, and serving God even when it's hard.

● Physical endurance – Relying on God's strength during times of illness or exhaustion.

3 Emotional endurance – Overcoming fear, anxiety, and depression through God’s peace.

      Hebrews 12:1-2 encourages us to run the race with perseverance, fixing our eyes on Jesus. He is the ultimate source of our strength.

5. “They shall walk, and not faint”

      Not every season of life requires running. Sometimes, it’s about steady, faithful walking. God provides strength for both the high-energy seasons and the slow, difficult journeys.

      Walking represents:

● Daily obedience – Following God’s commands even in routine life.

● Consistency – Living out our faith in small, everyday decisions.

● Long-term faithfulness – Remaining committed to God over a lifetime.

      Even in the most challenging seasons, God sustains His people. We may feel weak, but He enables us to keep going without fainting.

Practical Application: How to Wait on the Lord

1. Stay in God’s Word – Meditate on His promises daily (Psalm 119:105).

2. Pray Continually – Seek His guidance and strength (1 Thessalonians 5:17).

3. Trust in His Timing – Know that His plans are perfect (Ecclesiastes 3:11).

4. Rely on the Holy Spirit – Let Him empower you (Acts 1:8).

5. Encourage Others – Share the hope you have in Christ (Isaiah 41:10).

      Isaiah 40:31 is a profound reminder that God is our source of strength. When we trust Him, we are renewed, empowered, and able to face life’s challenges with endurance.

      No matter what you are going through today—whether it’s waiting for an answer to prayer, dealing with hardships, or feeling spiritually exhausted—God promises to give you new strength.

      Just like an eagle soaring effortlessly above the storm, you can rise above difficulties when you place your trust in the Lord. Keep waiting, keep trusting, and He will carry you through.