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Isaiah 40:31

But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint.

I rejoice at the truth of these words and, indeed, this verse has seen me through many trials of life (many of them of my own making!). 

This blog follows on from an earlier one called "While I was running" - where big thoughts about God were posted. The title came from The Apostle Paul's discussions about running the race (the Christian Life) to completion. While I was out running this morning I heard that small inner voice saying "Why be content with running? What about flying?" - which reminded me of this verse. 

In our contemporary Western, 1st World Society the culture is such that we are taught to seek out those things which benefit, amuse, comfort, and enrich us. We are encouraged to seek out the perfect lifestyle for us, this to include where we live, how we dress, the career we pursue, the activities for the children (plus necessary accessories), holiday destinations, garden design...............etc etc etc. We pursue our comfort.  

It is all too easy to come to our Christian life with the same expectations and expect God to have the same view. So when it doesn't go our way and things get difficult through whatever cause it can be all to easy to ask why. We pray for our comfort to return because we think it's our prerogative. 

So why have Christians through the ages suffered so much persecution? Does God not care about our comfort and peace of mind?

James has an intriguing and, some may think, puzzling answer. 

James 1:2

Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds

Which brings us back to trusting in the Lord, whatever and whenever things get tough (and all the rest of the time as well). He's building character and perseverance. He's developing your innate, God-given gifts for use in His Kingdom, He's demonstrating His sovereignty. He will show you that peace is not the absence of war, it's the presence of God, Prince of Peace. He will show you that joy is not mere happiness, it's the very presence of our joyful God. He will show you that love is not a feeling but a choice, and one which He himself will empower by His presence. 

In conclusion for now - let us trust in the Lord and fly, run, walk with Him, according to His perfect plan for us. 

Every blessing