NOT DISCOURAGED
Matthew 12:19-21
“ ‘He [the Messiah] will not quarrel nor cry out, nor will anyone hear His voice in the streets. A bruised reed He will not break, and smoking flax He will not quench, till He sends forth justice to victory; and in His name Gentiles will trust.’ ”
This quotation by Matthew from Isaiah Chapter 42 has always been an enigma to me. I’m not sure I understand its meaning, but it seems to explain the nature of Jesus’ ministry. Although He spoke harshly against the hypocrisy of the Jewish leaders, He did not quarrel or argue with people, nor lead protest marches against the evils of His day. He simply declared the truth of the Gospel. With the common sinners in the streets, He was gentle. He spoke the truth without breaking the bruised nor throwing cold water on smoldering faith. Isaiah spoke another word which Matthew did not include: “He will not fail nor be discouraged till He has established justice in the earth” (Isaiah 42:4). Jesus does not give up in discouragement. Surely his heart must be grieved by the rejection of the people He wants to save, but He tenderly keeps on reaching out to them until He comes again to establish His kingdom of justice and righteousness on the earth. I’m so glad that He did not give up on me.
TODAY’S PRINCIPLE: Jesus did not argue nor protest, but simply declared God’s truth with gentleness without getting discouraged.
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Have an encouraged day. Love you.
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