Looking up vs Giving up
Hebrew (which is the language Isaiah wrote in) is a very expressive language. If a word didn't quite describe the thing or action they had in mind, they would invent another. For an ancient language, Hebrew has a huge dictionary and many many words to choose from.
In the light of this, it is interesting that the Hebrew word for 'weary' appears four times. The root of this word means 'weary, tired, exhausted.' And in the light of the context of this passage it is significant to see this word repeated.
Isaiah is speaking to the exiled community who find themselves in the desert lands of Babylon, dislocated and devastated. They are convinced that God has forgotten them. They are depressed, broken, and tired. They have focussed on the experience of exile - on the frustration of their circumstances. Their vision is dominated by their situation - and they are weary: Dog-dead-tired.
Isaiah's advice is vital:
- God is not subject to the same numbing tiredness of heart and soul.
- God sees the weary and the tired and gives them strength
- Even the young and the strong can get tired - it's ok!
- There is inspiration, courage, and strength available for those who hope in Him.
This did not mean that they came out of the exile immediately - but rather that there would be a song of hope and courage in their hearts that brought them through their situations and helped them cope!
What does this mean for us?
- Our weariness does not define us and God is not subject to our spiritual, moral, and emotional lethargy.
- We are not defined by our circumstances.
- I can't look into myself for strength because I get tired.
- But I look up to Him for strength.
| Why do you say O Jacob and complain O Israel: 'My way is hidden from the Lord - My cause is disregarded by my God?' Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God - the Creator of the ends of the earth He will not grow tired or weary and His understanding no-one can fathom He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak Even youths grow tired and weary and young men stumble and fall 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. (Isaiah40:27-31) |
