On Eagles' Wings

Bald Eagle 02, originally uploaded by Assassin Photography.

Life is filled with frustrations, irritations, and aggravations! I learned that again last week when the oil furnace stopped working. All is well now. No more bucket baths. Hallelujah! I've relearned simple gratitude for things like hot water and heat in the house.

I've discovered that in between the daily problems and aggravations, life is just down right exhausting! It's easy to get worn out in our fast-paced American culture.

In spite of all the things that assail us in life, followers of Jesus have God's Word to see us through. As believers, we have a built-in sense of optimism and a positive disposition toward all of life. Why? Because we know that God is in charge. And we know that He is working in our lives...all the time...in the good times and the bad times..and even the boring in-between times.

Being a follower of Christ doesn't mean that we go through life looking through rose-colored glasses or that we've got some kind of naive "Pollyannaish" (def: unreasonable or illogically optimistic) outlook on life. Rather, we have a profoundly realistic view of life. We know that life is filled with hardships, difficulties, and tragic losses. But in spite of our hurts and struggles, we know that our Savior is greater than anything we'll ever face.

Let me encourage you to take advantage of these early days of 2008 and find a passage of scripture that is especially encouraging and/or uplifting to you personally. For me, one of my favorites is Isaiah 40:27-31. I love it so much that I've committed it to memory. Because I've memorized it, these "God Words" are my constant companion whether or not I have a Bible handy. I know them. They have soaked into my soul. They have become a part of who I am in Christ. God's Word can do that in your life as well.

Isaiah 40:27-31 begins with a complaint against God. Ever been there? You're pleading your case before the Lord and asking for His explanations. If you've "been there, done that," relax, you're in good company. Even the Biblical writer was struggling to find answers.

And then God answers...and wow...what an answer! Before God is through, He has us soaring on the wings of eagles. I love it when God does that. Let Him do it in your life today. You'll find Him in the pages of His Word.

Why not enjoy one of the mountain peak passages from God's Word today...

"Why do you say, O Jacob, and assert, O Israel, 'My way is hidden from the Lord, and the justice due me escapes the notice of my God?'

Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Everlasting God, the Lord, the Creator of the ends of the earth does not become weary or tired. His understanding is inscrutable.

He gives strength to the weary, and to him who lacks might He increases power. Though youths grow weary and tired, and vigorous young men stumble badly,

Yet those who wait for the Lord will gain new strength; they will mount up with wings like eagles, they will run and not get tired, they will walk and not become weary." (Isaiah 40:27-31, NASB)

Live the Red,

Mark