Nashville, Tennessee, United States - The Upper Room Daily Devotional "On Eagles' Wings" for Tuesday, 8 July 2014 - Read 1 Corinthians 9:24-27

Nashville, Tennessee, United States - The Upper Room Daily Devotional "On Eagles' Wings" for Tuesday, 8 July 2014 - Read 1 Corinthians 9:24-25 You’ve all been to the stadium and seen the athletes race. Everyone runs; one wins. Run to win. All good athletes train hard. They do it for a gold medal that tarnishes and fades. You’re after one that’s gold eternally.
26-27 I don’t know about you, but I’m running hard for the finish line. I’m giving it everything I’ve got. No sloppy living for me! I’m staying alert and in top condition. I’m not going to get caught napping, telling everyone else all about it and then missing out myself.
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.(Isaiah 40:31 (NIV))
I walk near an eagle sanctuary as part of my daily exercise regimen. One day I was tired, and I did not know if I would have the strength to walk my usual distance. I glanced upward and saw three eagles soaring above the treetops. Immediately, I remembered the scripture from that morning’s meditation in The Upper Room (quoted above). I began to recite that scripture verse and to focus on the soaring eagles. The Lord granted me the fortitude to walk the entire distance that I had set as my goal for the day. As I walked, I thanked God for the natural beauty of my surroundings, especially the beauty and majesty of the eagles. I also thanked God that I had read The Upper Room that morning as part of my daily spiritual practice. Many times, the demands of spiritual and physical discipline can overwhelm us, but God will answer our prayers when we ask for strength to persevere during our physical and spiritual trials. God, who is everlasting and almighty, is always available to help us; we only have to ask.
The Author: Suzanne E. Wiltz (Louisiana, USA)
Thought for the Day: Scripture can guide and inspire us during life’s trials.
Prayer: All-powerful God, please give us the fortitude to live a more disciplined life. Amen.
Prayer focus: Someone starting a new exercise regimen
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