40:1-2 God’s Comfort This section of Isaiah preaches comfort in the midst of the experience of exile. It is a peace that can only be found in the presence of God, not in political or social restoration. Such comfort was partially experienced when the Israelites returned from exile and was more fully realized with the arrival of Jesus Christ. It will be fully accomplished when Jesus comes again in glory.
40:28-31 Power to the Weak The creator of the universe is not ignoring us in our troubles. God is aware of us, providing strength to the powerless and energizing those at the end of their rope. We often refer to this famous image of an eagle soaring in the sky, untiring wings beating the air—but notice how it is preceded by a glorious description of who God is (40:28). God is the ultimate source of strength, always ready in our times of need.