«But those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint» (Isaiah 40:31).
The sixth symptom of depression is lack of energy and loss of physical and mental strength to fulfill daily tasks. It was repeatedly proven that those who suffer from depression benefit from activities like exercising, active support for the ones in need and social interaction. However, these lines of actions require energy and motivation which are usually not present in a person who suffers from depression.
Mind alone can communicate strength to the muscles, so they can initiate action. But because the inner energy is missing, it is necessary to turn to another external agent to change the attitude. Coming before God in fervent prayer and trusting in His promises is the method provided by the Creator. Hence, the mind can influence the physical actions of the body as the Psalmist declares, «But my horn [strength] You have exalted like a wild ox» (Ps. 92: 10); «The Lord is my strength and song» (Isa. 12:2); «He gives power to the weak, and to those who have no might He increases strength» (Isa. 40:29); «For I shall be glorious in the eyes of the Lord, and My God shall be My strength» (Isa. 49:5); «O Lord, my strength and my fortress, my refuge in the day of affliction» (Jer. 16:19).
Today’s text is among the most cherished ones in order to achieve a positive state of mind and energy in moments of discouragement. What a beautiful analogy of the eagle with new strength! What a most efficient balm for those Israelites who were under the Assyrian yoke! And what a most reassuring message for us who live in a century of frantic activity that so frequently leaves us tired and miserable!
Eagles are equipped with wide and heavy wings that do not always flap because they take advantage of the power of the wind to help them soar. When eagles fly upward, they make use of the warm air currents to rapidly reach high altitudes with minimal energy and to glide for hours without getting tired.
Let this beautiful image of the eagle rising on its flight with the power of the warm air currents be kept fresh in our minds. For God’s children, this very powerful external force is no other than the Holy Spirit who pushes us to fly tirelessly and to walk without exhaustion while we fulfill God’s will.Prepare yourself today to allow the Spirit to manifest His power and energy in your life.