Eagle Imagery[i]
but those who wait for 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
Isaiah claims that those who hope in the Lord will “soar on wings like eagles”. Majestic in appearance, with superb aerial skills, the eagle has served as a symbol of strength and courage since ancient times. Amazingly, an eagle’s wingspan can reach up to eight feet. Though it weighs only 10 – 14 pounds, an eagle can average up to 30 miles per hour in flight. The eagle’s wing feathers are designed to reduce turbulence. When its long and broad wings catch a thermal wind, this bird can soar for significant distances with minimal flapping. Thus, it saves precious energy.
When we hope in the Lord – trusting his promises and timing – we soar above difficulties, reduce the turbulence and manage our energy so we can run and not grow weary, walk and not feel faint. What a reassuring promise!
On a more personal note, Rosie Scott gave me the Bible as a gift that this devotion came from, when I graduated from Fuller Theological Seminary in 2016. If there is ever a person that soars above difficulties, doesn’t grow weary and can run rather than walk through difficulties, it is my dear friend, Rosie! Thank you, Rosie Scott for being a strong and stable witness to me and countless others.
Tammy Snyder
[i] Women of Faith Study Bible, 2001.