Isaiah 40:28-31 (NIV)
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.
My car had to go into the garage recently, and ended up being kept in for a second day, so I had to cope without a car to get around. Consequently, I did a lot more walking; to the office, and to schools to help with the lunch and after school clubs I run. As soon as I got out on my feet, I remembered how much I actually enjoy walking!
Here are just a few reasons why:
- I feel more energised and happier.
- I get more time to think, that I don’t when I’m rushing around.
- I don’t get caught in traffic and stressed about annoying drivers!
Yes, it takes a bit longer to get around, but in our busy world, where we try to live at break-neck speed, I think it’s much better to allow ourselves (or even force ourselves) to slow down sometimes.
Now all of this is quite appropriate because October is ‘International Walk (or cycle) to School Month’, in which young people and school staff are encouraged to find other ways than cars to travel to school. The organisation behind it lists even more benefits (such as health and cost and lack of pollution). They also note that funny walking can be good too – apparently walking sideways burns more calories than going straight forward!
Of course, walking does require more of us; more time, more energy, and perhaps, as with life when things get tough, we try to find ways around it. But the Bible encourages us that God strengthens us for each new day. When we feel weak and unable, the Lord will provide us with what we need to keep going. To walk, to run and even to soar like eagles – now that would be a fun way to get to school.
Jonny (North Lancs Area Manager)
Action/Prayer:
Why not try walking to school or to work, or if it’s too far, just going for a walk at the weekend, and at the same time asking God to help you with something you need strength for this month.
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