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Listen while you read: "Forth In Thy Name"1 (Lyrics) |
Matthew 12:20 – A bruised reed He will not break, and a smoldering (dimly burning) wick He will not quench, till He brings justice and a just cause to victory. (AMPC)
Countless times, Christians feel like giving up in our daily pursuit of God and happiness. Especially when discouragements and frustrations crop up along the way, that's normal for all of us. At times, some of us even feel that God has left us in the lurch and that His ears are no longer hearkening to our supplications.
In my previous job, I remember how some of my co-workers left work without warning or informing the management, and how they never returned to work afterwards due to the overwhelming frustrations from the job.
Giving up could be tolerated in the secular world and amongst unbelievers. But in God's kingdom, we don't give up on God and the pursuit of a glorious future, no matter the discouragements and temptations that we face, because we have a High Priest who is able to understand and sympathize and share our feelings, weaknesses, and infirmities and our liability to the assaults of temptation. His name is Jesus!
Our Scripture verse today further makes us understand that we serve a gentle Jesus who is so loving and caring that He wouldn't break a bruised reed or quench a dimly burning wick. Rather, He will tend to our damaged reeds and heal our wounds — our frustrations, discouragements, sicknesses, and failures. Like the good Samaritan, He will bind up our wounds with wine and oil. He will refill our spiritual lamps with new oil and fan us back to flame, if only we will keep our eyes on Him in the midst of our storms.
Friend, no matter the storm around us, Jesus is there with us in the storm. Let's not give up on God or on our goals yet. Let's keep our eyes on Jesus only and call on Him today to help, for He alone is the author and finisher of our faith. Pray with me:
Prayer: Gentle Jesus, Saviour, I call on You today for help. Please help me. Heal my wounds and restore every lost hope in me. Rejuvenate my spirit, and fan me back to flame. In Your mighty name, I pray. Amen.
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Amen, Owen.
You certainly do write a good devotional, Owen. Thank you.
Thank you, Owen, for a very timely message for me. I like your email address too.
Your reminding us of these spiritual principles and of our Saviour, Jesus, are much appreciated, Owen. Blessings to you today on the journey.
Thank you, Owen, for your devotional reminding us how gentle Jesus is in guiding, healing, encouraging, and just being there to listen. May God bless you.
Dear Owen,
I’m your fan! I enjoy your perspective and outlook on everyday life. We lived in Madagascar for several years, so I know a little of what life is like in another country. Keep up the good writing!
Good Day Owen
Thank You for your words of encouragement in today’s devotional. It is exactly what my wife and I needed to hear this morning. We are dealing with a number of issues and really needed to be reminded of that promise from Matthew. Thank you and God Bless.
(Ontario Canada)
My dear Owen,
How powerful is the name of our Jesus!!!
Thank you very much for sending this powerful message devotion.
As usual your devotions are always appreciated, inspiring heartfelt.
Sending warm regards and hoping that you and your family are safe.
Have a blessed week ahead. Stay strong!!
In Jesus name.
We all need this encouragement.
Thank you.