Stamina

".... 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

A jaunt to North Berwick to deliver a birthday greeting to my nephew, presented Annice and me with an opportunity to follow the John Muir Way into Edinburgh, a distance of over 26 miles. At several points we could have hopped on a bus or train but, fortified by my hip-flask and the odd pitstop for further refreshment, we kept going. On arrival at my sister's house in central Edinburgh, we joined a late supper party for friends who were embarking on the Moonwalk, a marathon through the night to raise support for various breast cancer charities.

They say that life is more a marathon than a sprint. People find various ways of coping with the stresses and strains - or not. The Bible promises that those who put their trust in the Lord will not only receive the stamina to stay the course but will enjoy a spring in their step... and more: they will soar! It would be unhelpful and unfair to assume that guarantees an easy life. Indeed there would be plenty of evidence to refute the very notion. What it does promise is that faith provides the wherewithal to cope with challenges which are thrown at us, often unexpectedly; it also enriches our appreciation of life's blessings.

Ultimately faith reassures us of a glorious future. On account of the forgiveness of our sins and their consequences, we can look forward to taking our place in God's eternal kingdom; not because we deserve it but as a gift of grace through the death and resurrection of Jesus. So allow the Holy Spirit to stiffen your resolve and strengthen those weak knees; it's time to thrive!