“But they 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 (ESV)
Reflection
Leadership weariness is rarely dramatic. It shows up as a shorter temper, a dread of Monday, a loss of joy in work that once felt meaningful. Many leaders keep running on fumes because the needs never stop and someone has to carry the load.
Isaiah spoke to people who were exhausted. Even the young grow weary and stumble, he says. Human strength has limits, no matter how gifted or disciplined we are. But those who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength.
Waiting is not passivity. It is a posture of dependence, trusting God enough to stop striving and receive from him. Renewal comes not from pushing harder but from returning to the source. The promise is not that leaders will never be tired, but that God gives strength to run, and when running is not possible, strength to walk without fainting.
For your leadership this week
- Notice the early signs of weariness in your body, mood and relationships.
- Schedule one block of time this week for rest that is not productive.
- Tell one trusted person honestly how tired you are.
Pivot question
Where are you relying on your own strength instead of waiting on the Lord?
Prayer
Lord, I am more tired than I often admit. Teach me to wait on you, renew my strength, and help me lead from your fullness rather than my emptiness. Amen.
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Scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.