Much like athletes of all levels of ability, I've had moments of triumph and difficulty during my fitness journey. Whether I am powerlifting and aiming to lift my heaviest weight ever, or attempting running a long-distance race and aiming for a PR (personal record), there are times that meeting my goal seems impossible. 

When I eagerly attempted to powerlift 100 pounds for the first time, muscle weakness revealed itself as I became weary. I knew that I needed to increase my strength to move past my newly discovered weightlifting plateau. After working on my upper body strength for a few weeks through repetitious exercises and rest, I noticed that I became stronger and could lift more.

Oftentimes my athletic experiences remind me of life. Have you ever had a moment where you felt exhausted and weak from the cares of life? I certainly have. The Bible tells us that strength renewal comes from waiting on the Lord. He never becomes weary and He understands everything in our lives, which is great news! Isaiah 40:28 says,

The everlasting God, the Lord, the Creator of the ends of the earth, neither faints nor is weary. His understanding is unsearchable. (NKJV)

Spiritual weakness and exhaustion can cause fatigue while we wait for change in certain areas of our lives, yet God gives power to the weary. Isaiah 40:29 says,

He gives power to the weak, and to those who have no might He increases strength.

Even eagles give an example of how we can soar above the troubles of this life as they fly freely above the storms. This is what God promised us as His Word declares in Isaiah 40:31,

But those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles.

Being a long-distance runner has also shown me that there are many parallels between running and our faith journey. Both physical running and the faith journey can lead to weariness. Just as I set goals to pace myself so that I can persevere, there is even more importance in setting spiritual goals. God helps us persevere in our faith journey as we lean on Him and trust His lead. He has given us His Word to study and hold onto, His Holy Spirit to guide us, and His Son Jesus who died and rose for us. 

He also gives us community to walk through life with, whether it is fellow believers near or far. Walking with them often helps us not to faint in our faith walk. The chapter ends with Isaiah 40:31 stating, "They shall walk and not faint."

Whether you are soaring high in your faith or walking in a low valley, trust that God will give you strength for the journey. Pray the following prayer to renew your strength today. 

Dear Lord, at times I am tired, weak, and weary in my faith walk. I ask that You give me the strength I need to never give up or quit. I know that You will provide me with might and faith to continue. I receive Your strength in exchange for my weakness now. In Jesus’ name, amen. ~

Scripture is quoted from the Holy Bible, New King James Version, copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.