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” (Isaiah 40:31 NIV).
When my children were younger, mealtimes could sometimes be challenging, especially when they were introduced to new foods. One child, who shall remain nameless, would’ve been happy to eat chicken nuggets and French fries for the rest of her life. She would resist trying various dishes outside of what she preferred. Sadly, at school she was introduced to the food she loved (that’s my story and I’m sticking to it). She came to expect that she’d be allowed to eat what’d become familiar—every single day. Good grief!
This may be a fun example, but it makes a solid spiritual point. We can’t go ahead with God to experience a life packed with new, rich, and delicious experiences if we’re spending too much time on choosing the appetite we’ve developed, looking back at what we prefer. We must leave our preferences behind and decide to proceed forward with all that God has to offer on the menu of life.
I often catch myself craving things I’ve built an appetite for, like comfort, peace, and familiarity. But this season of life offers something different, like the sudden loss of beloved family members, tough relationships, and navigating through unfamiliar territory. I find myself having to leave my cravings behind, knowing that God always has something better in store, no matter the bitterness of the current season.
Like many of us who are challenged with difficulty, and or new experiences, I know that we will change for the better when we trust in God’s plan. I am grateful for God’s word that tells us we are unstoppable despite what the odds look like. The end of our strength is the beginning of His. In Isaiah 40:31, the passage refers to those of us who have challenges, but the word tells us know matter what we feel or see, we are being transformed, renewed, and strengthened! There will be a reward for us when we choose what God offers on the menu of life. To leave some things behind, we must learn that God has a plan and trust His plan.
Prayer: Lord, sometimes it’s hard for me to let go of the things for which I’ve built an appetite. Show me how to keep my mind open to the possibilities before me when you offer challenges and new experiences. Show me how to grow for each season in my life, knowing I live in the victory you have in store for me. Amen.
Your Turn: Are you being called out of your comfort zone? What is God calling you to leave behind to experience something new?