Isaiah 40:29–31   Busy… Tired… Worn out… Burnt out… If you ask someone how they’re doing and don’t hear “fine” chances are pretty good you heard something like the responses above.  We are a society that thrives on being “on-the-go.”  Or maybe your weariness isn’t a result of busyness but suffering.  Perhaps you’re walking through a trial sapping you of spiritual, emotional, and physical strength.  Regardless - if you, like me are weary today, this is for you.

Isaiah invites the weary to stop looking at our weariness and lift our gaze to the unlimited God who calls us each by name.

First, Isaiah says, God is everlasting.  Unlike us, God not only has all the time in the world, He has all the time there ever was, and all the time there ever will be. That is to say, time does not provide boundaries on His life as it does yours and mine.

Secondly, Isaiah invites the weary to behold the Maker of the Universe.  This reveals God’s power and His sovereignty.  He has absolute jurisdiction over every molecule, atom, galaxy, and nation.  Not one sparrow falls without His notice; not one hair falls from your head without God’s awareness (Matthew 10:30);  He knows every snowflake (Job 37:6) and star (Isaiah 40:26).  We who are so limited in our control - can trust the One who is unlimited in His sovereign rule over all.

Thirdly, Isaiah assures the weary that what’s happening to them will never happen to God.  He never yawns, never naps, and never experiences fatigue, burnout or stress. Never.  We who are tired and exhausted can rest fully confident in our Lord knowing that the promises He offers us will always have His infinite power behind them.

Finally, Isaiah points the weary to God’s boundless knowledge and wisdom.  Israel had  accused God of not seeing their plight.  Isaiah responds by saying God understands what we can handle - understands exactly what we’re going through.  He gets it.  And He promises hope and help for the journey.

"He gives strength to the faint and strengthens the powerless.  Youths may become faint and weary, and young men stumble and fall, but those who trust in the LORD will renew their strength;  they will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not become weary, they will walk and not faint." (Isaiah 40:29–31)

Paul put these promises to the test.  He cried out over and over for relief from suffering. The answer was not what he was expecting.  It was better. “My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is perfected in weakness.” (2 Corinthians 12:9)