Isaiah 42:3 A bruised reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out.
The Old Testament is full of “angry God,” who smites, destroys, strikes down. I have a difficult time with that God, probably because that speaks of retribution and not redemption. My God, the God of my salvation and strength, is much kinder and gentler. He will not break a bruised reed nor snuff out a smoldering wick. He will gently lead the blind along unfamiliar paths. He will not forsake His beloved.
Isaiah 42:16a I will lead the blind by ways they have not known, along unfamiliar paths I will guide them…
This begs the question: Did God change? Did our cultural view of Him change? Is Jesus the kinder, gentler side of God that the Old Testament rarely sees? I have my theories, but if I were to say, in the words of a popular tune, “Lemme tell you ‘bout my Jesus,” I would definitely share tales of His mercy and grace.
Isaiah 42:16b …I will turn the darkness into light before them and make the rough places smooth…
Lord, Thank You for Your mercy and grace, Your compassion to Your people—undeserved, unearned, but so needed. Forgive me when I don’t treat others the way You treat me. Help me to be more merciful and compassionate. Draw me closer. Amen.
Isaiah 42:16c …These are the things I will do; I will not forsake them.
Have a blessed day.