“A bruised reed shall he not break, and the smoking flax shall he not quench: he shall bring forth judgment unto truth.” Isaiah 42:3.

Imminent danger, illnesses, mental anguish, financial losses, grief, feelings of unworthiness and numerous unexpected circumstances can emerge at any time; this journey called life follows a road that is unseen to the natural eye and has many twists and turns. Langston Hughes wrote in His poem entitled Mother to Son: “Well son, I’ll tell: Life for me aint been no crystal stair. It’s had tacks in it, And splinters, And boards torn up, And places with no carpet on the floor — Bare. But all the time I’se been a-climbin’ on, And reachin landin’s, And turnin corners, And sometimes goin’ in the dark where there ain’t been no light.” Hughes portrayed a life of one who had endured many mountain peaks and valley experiences.

The Word of God provides the hope, strength, and comforting peace that we need in our weakest moments. God never promised that this life would be one of ease; but what He did promise was to never leave us alone, provide for all our needs and protect us as we travel through this present age. So know this, that in our weakest moments we can find great consolation in these words of the Lord… “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28. 

The prophet Isaiah provides for us an analogy of two weaken states that can be associated with the trials and tribulations faced by the child of God: a bruised reed– a tender plant that is growing in a marsh or possible pond, it has been trampled on, bent, twisted and is just about to snap; the smoking flax is the wick in and old kerosene or oil lamp that has almost run out, it is so dim you can barely see the light, the slightest blow of the wind will make it perish; but God steps in right on time and reverses, heals and restores the situation. “A bruised reed shall he not break, and the smoking flax shall he not quench: he shall bring forth judgment unto truth.” Isaiah 42:3.

Even though we endure hardships and unforeseen dangers, we have the assurance of God’s great mercy with us every step of the way. No child of God needs to ever give up hope or live-in constant fear of the unknown…what God promises He faithfully provides. The Holy Spirit empowers and strengthens us to walk this Christian journey in His love, peace, and amazing grace. “But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.” Isaiah 40:31.

So, let us stand with confidence and courage to walk in the mercy and joy of the Lord every single day . . . we are His precious jewels, and our weakest moments are only opportunities for His glory and magnificence to be on display to the world!

God’s blessings and love be with us all!