Jeremiah Burroughs: Constant Tenor

Home » Meditations » Meditations » Jeremiah Burroughs: Constant Tenor

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. Isaiah 40:29-31

“I remember it is reported of the eagle that it is not like other fowls: when other fowls are hungry they make a noise; but the eagle is never heard to make noise though it lacks food. Now it is from the magnitude of its spirit that it will not make such complaints as other fowls do when they lack food, because it is above hunger, and above thirst. Similarly it is an argument of a gracious magnitude of spirit, that whatsoever befalls it, yet it is not always whining and complaining as others do, but it goes on in its way and course, and blesses God, and keeps in a constant tenor whatever befalls it. Such things as cause others to be dejected and fretted and vexed, and take away all the comfort of their lives make no alteration at all in the spirits of these men and women. This, I say, is a sign of a great deal of strength of grace.”

Jeremiah Burroughs in The Rare Jewel of Christian Contentment, 73.

Jenni and I did a puzzle with eagles in it over Christmas so this seemed fitting. When we live and give according to God’s design, we often sacrifice and find ourselves in need. But how do we navigate such seasons? Do we cry like most fowls? Or do we exhibit a “constant tenor” of contentment.

The idea of having a constant tenor is not insignificant. It’s only possible by grace. God gives us the strength we need to soar, even in hard seasons. Soaring is only possible for those who wait on the Lord. It’s easier said than done. It requires us to wait. When we do, we find new strength.

Only then do we we realize that God is the One who sustains us and fuels our generous living, giving, serving, and loving. Remember the eagle and exhibit a constant tenor of contentment. God give us grace and strength in abundance and help us exhibit a constant tenor before a watching world. Amen.