Romans 15:4
“For whatever was written in earlier times was written for our instruction, so that through perseverance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.”

God has given us His Word so that we might be encouraged and have hope. But how do we receive encouragement through the Scriptures?  Often, just reading it is not enough.

To get the full benefit of Scripture, we must take time to internalize it into our heart.  The Bible refers to this process as “meditating” on the Word.  Let’s “meditate” on one of the most beautiful Bible promises God has given His people.

Isaiah 40:31
“Yet those who wait for (Or hope in) the Lord
Will gain new strength;
They will mount up with wings like eagles,
They will run and not get tired,
They will walk and not become weary.”

1. Quiet your mind by focusing on the Lord.  Pray and ask the Holy Spirit who lives in you to help you understand, internalize, and apply this verse.
2. Read out loud.  Speak the verse slowly, and think about it.  Repeat.
3. Dig a little. Study what “wait for” means.  Read the description given in Psalm 37:1-11.
4. Use the verse in prayer, praise, and thanksgiving. 
”Lord, thank You for Your promise.  You said (quote the verse).  Please help me learn to wait for you and put my hope in You.  I believe Your promise, and I receive it now. Thank You for encouraging me with Your Word.  In Jesus’ name, amen.”
5. Confess the verse: “I wait for the Lord and I will gain new strength…”
6. Remind yourself of the promise throughout the day.  Write it on a 3×5 card so you can keep it with you, and then memorize it.