A DIFFICULT HILL

READ: Isaiah 40:25-31

He gives power to the weak, and to those who have no might He increases strength. – Isaiah 40:29

THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: 2 Samuel 1-4

Researchers at the University of Virginia have found that most people perceive a hill to be steeper than it really is, especially if they’re tired or carrying a heavy load. When asked to estimate the slope of a hill, test participants consistently misjudged it, thinking a 10-degree slant was about 30 degrees, and rating a 5-degree slope as nearly 20 degrees. Hardly any of them believed they could be that far off.

When we’re burdened and exhausted, even a minor problem can seem too big to handle. As we encounter a trial in life, we’re tempted to sit down at the base of that difficult hill and stay there, convinced that the grade is too steep.

That is why we need the encouragement of God’s Word. It draws our attention to our untiring God, who knows our need. Isaiah wrote, “The Creator of the ends of the earth neither faints nor is weary. His understanding is unsearchable. He gives power to the weak and to those who have no may He increases strength” (Isa. 40:28-29).

Because we so easily misjudge life’s difficulties, we need courage to keep going when we are tempted to quit. Take a step of faith today and join those who depend on the Lord, who run and are not weary, who walk and do not faint (v. 31). In His strength, you can conquer any difficult hill. – David McCasland

As we live for Christ and follow Him,

The way may seem quite steep;

But if we trust His grace and strength,

Our steps He’ll guide and keep. – Fitzhugh

God always gives enough strength for the next step.