#TuesdayTruth Isaiah 42:3

“A bruised reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out…”

Friend, we all know what it is to feel like a “bruised reed” or a “smoldering wick”. Consider with me for a moment what those actually look like. First, picture a stalk that normally stands tall and sways in the wind, but this one has already been weakened to the point that it could snap with just a bit more pressure. Then, consider the candle that normally burns bright, but has burned down to the very last bit of wick and is basically just sending up a small, thin, line of smoke at this point. It could be put out with even just the smallest puff of air. Sound familiar?

Although we know what it is like to feel just like those images described, my prayer for you is that, more than that, you would know our Savior’s gentleness, His patience, His kindness, His goodness and grace. We know that our Savior is all-powerful and incomparably strong. Our Father created this universe and everything in it. He holds it all in His hands. There is none stronger. Yet, He is also so incredibly gentle.

In Matthew 11:28-29, Jesus says, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” Read it again- He literally describes Himself as “gentle and humble in heart.” How many times do we need that gentle voice?

Another scripture, 2 Corinthians 1:3-4, reads “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles...” Read it again, “the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles…” How many times do we need to know our Father as comforter?

We will all have difficulties in this life. I do not say that to minimize the pain felt when we are in the midst of the trial. Knowing that everyone has hard times does not make it hurt less when we are in it. However, what does help, is knowing that He will not “break” us or “snuff” us out. Our Father, our gentle Father, who loves us more than we can ever understand, will comfort us in those times of trouble. His word says it, so we know it is true. What a wonderful blessed assurance!

Heavenly Father,

Thank you that even when we feel like a “bruised reed” or a “smoldering wick”, we can know you as “the God of all comfort.” Thank you that you are “gentle and humble in heart.” Thank you for being a kind and compassionate Father. Thank you that you are a God who comforts the troubled and who restores the broken.

We love you Father, Amen.