With these words God characterises His... - All The Good Seed Daily Devotionals for 2026

He will not cry out, nor raise his voice, nor cause his voice to be heard in the street. A bruised reed he will not break, and smoking flax he will not quench.
Isaiah 42:2.3

With these words God characterises His "servant", the Lord Jesus Christ. Shouting and expressions of annoyance were never heard from the voice of God's perfect servant; nor should they be heard from those who serve Him: "A servant of the Lord must not quarrel but be gentle to all, able to teach, patient" (2 Timothy 2:24). A servant of Christ should follow the example of His Master in a spirit of gentleness, supported by sound doctrine. Through prayer he must count on God to intervene and grant insight and repentance to those in opposition.

"A bruised reed he will not break." How moving is this description of God's true servant's character. His work here demanded single-mindedness, and innumerable adversaries had to be overcome, before His kingdom is established. Then "the lofty looks of man shall be humbled" (Isaiah 2:11). But to achieve this end, He does not deal inconsiderately with the weak.

A "smoking flax" can be extinguished by a single touch, or with gentle handling the flame can be rekindled. For some situations the manner of handling is crucial. Peter was surely a "smoking flax" when he denied his Lord and wept bitterly. But the Lord did not extinguish that glimmering wick. He had already prayed that Peter's faith should not fail: the tiny, weak flame should not go out. A single glance at the right moment and gentle words uttered later restored the fallen apostle for his later service. What an example of gentleness!

Today's reading: 1 Chronicles 27:1-34 · 1 Timothy 3:8-16