RENEWAL OF STRENGTH IN THE LORD
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Isaiah 40:31 (NIV)
"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."
Supporting Texts: Psalm 27:14, 2 Corinthians 12:9-10, Philippians 4:13, Exodus 15:2, 1 Samuel 30:6
INTRODUCTION
There was once a man who set out on a long journey. He started with great energy, but as he walked, the sun grew hotter, the road became rough, and his strength began to fail. Just when he was about to give up, he found a resting place with fresh water and shade. After drinking and resting, he felt renewed and continued his journey with fresh strength.
Life is like that journey. We start with zeal, but along the way, challenges, trials, and burdens can drain our strength. However, God promises to renew our strength when we put our trust in Him.
Isaiah 40:31 tells us:
"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."
No matter how weak you feel today, God can restore your strength.
1. GOD GIVES STRENGTH TO THE WEARY
There was a young woman who faced many struggles. She had prayed, fasted, and worked hard, but everything seemed to go wrong. One day, she cried out, "Lord, I have no strength left!"
Then she read Isaiah 40:29:
"He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak."
She realised that her strength was not enough, but God’s strength was unlimited.
Many times, we try to handle life in our own power, but we fail. The good news is that God does not expect us to be strong by ourselves. He is the One who strengthens us when we feel weak.
Are you feeling exhausted, discouraged, or overwhelmed? Turn to God—He will renew your strength.
2. STRENGTH IS RENEWED THROUGH WAITING ON GOD
A farmer once planted a seed. He watered it every day, but for weeks, nothing happened. He wanted to dig it up, but an older farmer told him, "Be patient. It is growing under the soil." A few days later, a green sprout appeared, and soon, the plant became strong and fruitful.
Sometimes, we feel like God is silent. We pray, but nothing seems to change. However, God is working behind the scenes.
Psalm 27:14 says:
"Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord."
Strength is renewed when we wait on God in faith. The waiting season is not wasted—it is preparing us for greater things.
3. GOD’S STRENGTH IS MADE PERFECT IN WEAKNESS
Paul, the great apostle, faced a personal struggle that made him weak. Three times, he begged God to take it away. But God told him:
"My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." (2 Corinthians 12:9)
Paul then declared:
"For when I am weak, then I am strong." (2 Corinthians 12:10)
God often allows weaknesses so that we can rely on His strength. Instead of complaining about our struggles, we should embrace God’s grace, knowing that His strength will sustain us.
4. THOSE WHO TRUST IN GOD WILL RISE ABOVE CHALLENGES
An eagle faces many storms, but it does not run from them. Instead, it spreads its wings and soars above the storm.
Likewise, when we trust in God, we do not break under pressure—we rise above it.
Philippians 4:13 says:
"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."
No matter the challenges before you, God’s strength will lift you up.
5. STRENGTH IS RENEWED IN WORSHIP AND PRAISE
King David once faced a major crisis—his city was burned, his family was taken captive, and his men wanted to stone him. He was deeply distressed, but instead of giving up, he turned to God in worship.
1 Samuel 30:6 says:
"David strengthened himself in the Lord his God."
When we feel weak, worship is a powerful weapon. Instead of focusing on problems, focus on God’s greatness. As you praise Him, He will renew your strength.
CONCLUSION: GOD IS YOUR SOURCE OF STRENGTH
Like the weary traveller who found an oasis, we must come to God for renewal. He gives strength to the weary, refreshes those who wait on Him, and lifts up those who trust in Him.
Are you feeling tired, weak, or discouraged?
Do you need fresh strength for the journey ahead?
Put your hope in the Lord—He will renew your strength!
PRAYER POINTS
1. Lord, renew my strength and empower me to rise above challenges.
2. Father, help me to trust in You and not rely on my own strength.
3. Holy Spirit, fill me with fresh energy and passion for my assignment.
4. Lord, teach me to wait on You and find strength in Your presence.
5. Father, let Your grace be sufficient for me in times of weakness.
May the Lord strengthen and renew you daily. Amen!
