Isaiah 40:31 (KJV):
“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 is a favorite verse for many Christians. It’s often quoted in sermons, printed on wall art, and memorized for encouragement. This verse offers a picture of God giving power to the weak. It reminds us that when we wait on Him, He provides strength beyond our own.
What Does It Mean to “Wait Upon the Lord”?
The word wait doesn’t mean doing nothing. In Hebrew, it means to hope, trust, or look eagerly. Waiting on God is about actively trusting Him in every moment. It means depending on His timing instead of rushing with our own plans.
Psalm 27:14 (NIV):
“Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord.”
This verse teaches us that strength comes from trusting God’s ways, even when they don’t make sense in the moment.
“Shall Renew Their Strength”
God promises to give new strength to those who rely on Him. When we are tired, stressed, or discouraged, He gives us what we need to keep going. This renewal is spiritual, emotional, and sometimes even physical.
2 Corinthians 12:9 (ESV):
“My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.”
Just like Paul, we learn that God often shows His power best when we feel weak.
Mount Up with Wings Like Eagles
This is a powerful image. Eagles fly high above storms, riding the wind instead of fighting it. When we trust God, we can rise above fear, worry, and problems. God lifts us up.
Exodus 19:4 (NIV):
“You yourselves have seen what I did to Egypt, and how I carried you on eagles’ wings and brought you to myself.”
God doesn't just give us strength—He carries us.
Run and Not Be Weary
This line speaks of endurance. Life is a race, and God helps us keep running without giving up. It doesn’t mean life will be easy. It means God gives us power to push through.
Hebrews 12:1 (NIV):
“Let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.”
God strengthens us to finish the race He’s placed before us.
Walk and Not Faint
Even in the small things—like daily choices and responsibilities—God gives us strength. Walking isn’t flashy. It’s steady, faithful living. That’s what the Christian life looks like most of the time.
Micah 6:8 (NIV):
“What does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”
This verse reminds us that walking with God matters. It’s not just about big moments but also about consistent faith.
Summary Table: Key Themes in Isaiah 40:31
Phrase | Meaning |
---|---|
Wait upon the Lord | Trust in God with patience and hope |
Renew their strength | God gives new power when we feel tired or weak |
Mount up with wings as eagles | Rise above troubles through God’s power |
Run and not be weary | God gives endurance in our spiritual journey |
Walk and not faint | God helps us stay strong in daily, faithful living |
Final Thoughts
Isaiah 40:31 reminds us that strength comes from the Lord, not from ourselves. Whether we’re soaring, running, or simply walking through life—God is with us, renewing us. In every season, His promise stands true.
Galatians 6:9 (NIV):
“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”