An Encouraging Word

The prophet Isaiah said of Jesus that…

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

Even though your heart is bruised and your passion for life feels like a smoldering wick, be encouraged my friend, this is not the end. God loves you, he really does and he is nearer than he feels. He knows your pain. He knows how disappointed and how brokenhearted you are. He knows what it feels like to be betrayed.

I want to remind you that his promises are true. They were true the day he spoke them to you and they are still true today. This has been a very difficult chapter but your story isn’t complete. So much more is yet to be written.

These words from Darrell Evans’ “Trading My Sorrows” are especially true for you today…

I'm pressed but not crushed persecuted not abandoned
Struck down but not destroyed
I'm blessed beyond the curse for his promise will endure
And his joy's gonna be my strength

Though the sorrow may last for the night
His joy comes with the morning

Hold on till the morning my friend; hold on… joy is coming.

Father, encourage my anonymous friend. Let them feel your presence. In their weakest moments be their strength. Breath on this smoldering wick until it burns brightly once again, amen.

© Tom Zawacki 2006

Artist Credit: “The Bruised Reed” by Cornelis Monsma