Strength Training with Isaiah

By David A. Edwards

Church Magazines

Feeling spiritually weak? Isaiah has some ideas to help get strong.

When athletes need to get physically stronger, they generally know what to do. They call it strength training. This usually means an exercise regimen that includes weights and other forms of resistance so that muscles are worked out and grow stronger.

What about when you want to get spiritually stronger? Do you know where to go for that?

Well, the ancient prophet Isaiah did. And he told people over and over how to get strong. Here’s just a sampling of “strength training” from Isaiah.

Where Do You Find Strength?

The message from Isaiah is pretty hard to miss.

Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ are your strength. Love Them. Have faith in Them. Trust Them. Turn to Them. Pray to Heavenly Father in the name of Jesus Christ. Keep the commandments. Follow the prophets. Draw upon the enabling power that comes through Jesus Christ because of His atoning sacrifice. Repent. Make and keep covenants. Keep an eternal perspective. Focus on Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ.

There is no other source of spiritual strength.

Who Can Receive Strength?

God gives strength to those whose strength is failing and who acknowledge their weakness and humble themselves before God (see Ether 12:27).

He gives strength to those who “wait upon the Lord.” These people patiently endure all things in faith, expecting that the Lord’s blessings will eventually come as they trust in Him.

What If You’re Afraid and Facing Opposition?

Isaiah gives you the Lord’s promise of help and strength in the face of opposition. This opposition should not perplex or distress you (see 2 Corinthians 4:8–9). The Lord will be with you as you turn to Him.

If your burdens feel too great, you need not stumble. The Lord can make your burdens light and strengthen you (see Matthew 11:28–30; Mosiah 24:15).

So, if you ever feel weak or worn down spiritually, remember Isaiah’s strength training. Turn wholeheartedly to the Lord.