I go to the tap for a drink of water several times a day. I open the refrigerator looking for something to eat. Over and over I unconsciously pull in a breath of air. Every night I lay down for a period of rest. Regularly, without thought or compulsion, I seek out the sources of strength for my physical body.

It takes more intentionality to search for the source of strength for my soul. The psalmist tells us: You, God, are awesome in your sanctuary; the God of Israel gives power and strength to his people.

Years later Isaiah doubled down on the earlier promise:

The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom. He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak…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.

The verb hope in this passage suggests an exchange of strength. We exchange our frailty for the omnipotent power of God. As a result we can walk day after day after day in confidence and vigor.

God gave power and strength to ancient peoples, and the Lord holds power and strength for you and I as well. If we go to the source, we’ll discover the fortitude our souls crave.

Psalm 68 & Isaiah 40 in Through the Bible in 2024

Photo by Jacek Dylag