April 18

But those who wait upon the LORD will renew their strength; they will mount up with wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not faint. — Isa 40:31 BSB

"They shall mount up with wings like eagles" is God's preparation for the next promise: "They shall run and not grow weary, they shall walk and not faint." Moments of holy exultation prepare us for hours of patient plodding, waiting, and working. Just as nature has its springs, so does grace.

Rejoice in the Lord always, and again I say, rejoice. Let Him be our constant joy, for His heart is a fountain of blessedness, anointed with the oil of gladness. Don’t be disappointed if the tides of joy aren’t always high. Even at low tide, the ocean is just as full. Perpetual excitement, even of a happy kind, is unsustainable. God often rests in His love.

Let us live as unconsciously as possible, filling each moment with faithful service, trusting God to stir the springs of joy at His will. As we continue faithfully, we will hear His glad whisper, "Well done, good and faithful servant, enter into the joy of your Lord."