The Eagle In The Bible: A Symbol Of The Christian Life Series

THE EAGLE IN THE BIBLE: A SYMBOL OF THE CHRISTIAN LIFE

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Isaiah 40:31

Key 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)

Supporting Texts: Exodus 19:4, Deuteronomy 32:11-12, Psalm 103:5, Job 39:27-30

INTRODUCTION

The eagle is one of the most majestic and powerful birds created by God. Throughout Scripture, God uses the eagle to reveal spiritual truths about strength, vision, renewal, protection, and perseverance.

For the believer, the eagle becomes a mirror—a picture of the life of faith and the kind of character God wants us to cultivate. Just as the eagle rises above storms, sees clearly from afar, and protects its young, Christians are called to rise above challenges, live with spiritual vision, and trust God’s sustaining care.

In this message, we shall explore the qualities of the eagle and how they reflect the Christian life, so that we may live victoriously in Christ.

1. STRENGTH AND RENEWAL (Isaiah 40:31)

Eagles are strong, enduring creatures that soar long distances without tiring. In the same way, believers who wait on the Lord exchange weakness for divine strength.

a) God is the source of true strength (Psalm 28:7). Our strength is limited, but the Lord is our strength and shield.

b) Waiting on God brings supernatural renewal (Lamentations 3:25). Those who wait on Him will find new energy to continue.

c) Human strength fails, but divine strength never runs out (2 Corinthians 12:9-10). God’s power is made perfect in our weakness.

d) Strength enables endurance in trials (James 1:2-4). Divine strength makes us steadfast even under pressure.

Biblical Example: Elijah, after exhaustion, was strengthened by God with heavenly food and continued his journey (1 Kings 19:4-8).

2. VISION AND DISCERNMENT (Job 39:27-29)

The eagle has sharp vision that allows it to spot prey miles away. In the same way, Christians are called to live with spiritual vision and discernment.

a) Vision helps believers to perceive divine direction (Proverbs 29:18). Without vision, people perish.

b) Discernment is a gift of the Spirit (1 Corinthians 12:10). The Holy Spirit enables us to distinguish truth from deception.

c) God calls His children to walk by faith, not by sight (2 Corinthians 5:7). True vision is spiritual, not physical.

d) Spiritual blindness leads to stumbling (John 9:39-41). When we lack discernment, we fall into traps of the enemy.

Biblical Example: Elisha prayed for his servant’s eyes to be opened, and he saw the heavenly army protecting them (2 Kings 6:17).

3. SOARING ABOVE STORMS (Deuteronomy 32:11-12)

Unlike other birds, eagles use storm winds to soar higher. Believers too can rise above trials by depending on God’s power.

a) Trials are not meant to break us but to elevate us (Romans 8:28). God works all things for our good.

b) Faith gives us victory over storms (1 John 5:4). Our faith is the weapon to overcome challenges.

c) God turns opposition into promotion (Genesis 50:20). What the enemy meant for evil, God turns for good.

d) Fear keeps us grounded, but faith helps us rise (Matthew 14:28-31). Fear paralyses, but faith makes us soar.

Biblical Example: Paul and Silas sang praises in prison, and God turned their storm into a miracle of deliverance (Acts 16:25-26).

4. LONGEVITY AND RENEWAL (Psalm 103:5)

Eagles go through molting, shedding old feathers and growing new ones to regain strength. Christians must also go through renewal in Christ.

a) God renews our inner man daily (2 Corinthians 4:16). Though the outward man perishes, the inward man is renewed.

b) Renewal requires putting off the old man and putting on the new (Ephesians 4:22-24). Transformation begins with letting go of sin.

c) Spiritual disciplines bring renewal (Romans 12:2). Prayer, Word, and worship transform the mind.

d) God restores wasted years and strength (Joel 2:25-26). Renewal brings recovery of lost opportunities.

Biblical Example: Naomi’s strength and joy were renewed when God gave her restoration through Ruth and Obed (Ruth 4:13-17).

5. FOCUS AND DETERMINATION (Hebrews 12:2)

An eagle locks onto its prey with unwavering focus until it succeeds. Likewise, believers must keep their eyes fixed on Jesus.

a) A focused life leads to victory (Philippians 3:13-14). Those who press toward the mark reach their goal.

b) Distractions hinder progress (Luke 10:40-42). Martha was distracted, but Mary chose the better part.

c) Endurance requires keeping eyes on Christ (Colossians 3:1-2). Our focus must remain on things above.

d) Determination helps overcome opposition (Nehemiah 6:3). A determined heart refuses to be distracted.

Biblical Example: Nehemiah remained focused on rebuilding the wall despite mockery and threats (Nehemiah 4:6-9).

6. PROTECTION AND CARE (Exodus 19:4)

Eagles protect their young by carrying them on their wings. God likewise shields His children with divine care.