A bruised reed and a faint wick—two fragile objects Isaiah finds to tell us about God. Imagine that you are holding a reed whose stem is bent. Gently you lay it down so that it does not break altogether. If oil runs out in a lamp, the wick will burn all by itself, usually making a strong smell. Instead of putting out the flickering flame, gently pour oil into the lamp; the wick now soaked in oil makes the flame burn bright and strong.
Sit quietly and imagine that you are a bruised reed or a smoldering wick. Maybe there’s some hurt you may feel. Now imagine God gently lifting you into his hands, tenderly protecting the bruised reed, and soaking the wick with his love and grace.
A delicate object sent in the mail has the words “Fragile: Handle with Care” stamped on it. That’s the way God treats us. Let’s do the same to each other.
Examples of Bible Breaths Learn More…
A bruised reed, You will not break. v. 3
Past is gone; new is coming v. 9
Taken by the hand of God v. 6
Glory only to the Lord v. 8
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The Bible Through the Seasons 