The word that sustains

'The Sovereign Lord has given me an instructed tongue, to know the word that sustains the weary. He wakens me morning by morning, wakens my ear to listen like one being taught.' Isaiah 50:4 NIV

When we are very tired many of us would consider that sleep is what we need most. Indeed Psalm 127 speaks of God giving His beloved sleep. This verse offers another remedy and speaks of help coming from an 'instructed tongue.' Isaiah had prophesied about Jesus, the Servant of the Lord, saying that His words would sustain the weary.

It is good to consider how the Word of God can sustain us when it feels as if all our energy has drained out of us. God's Word is full of life and power. There is more to us than mere flesh. We are a spirit and we have a soul and so we need to keep receiving the living power of the Word of God. Jesus said, 'The words I have spoken to you are spirit and they are life.' (see John 6:63b NIV)

There are times when I have sensed a weariness trying to come upon me. Gradually I have learnt to recognise that I need to draw aside to read and listen to God's Word. Then I receive refreshment that I can only get from the Word of God. It is particularly helpful to declare aloud the scriptures which speak of the strength that God will give His people.

'The Lord gives strength to his people; the Lord blesses his people with peace.' Psalm 29:11 NIV