Here is a promise for you and me when we are at our weakest. This verse speaks of the coming Messiah, the Lord Jesus Christ, and Matthew rightly applies it to Him in his gospel. (Matthew 12:18-21) You see, God knew that there would be times when we would be so burdened by the cares of this world that we would feel bruised and battered - as though if we had to endure one more day of hardship and heartache, we would break. We might even feel as though we were no longer a shining light for Christ, but a dimly burning candle.

I felt this way myself not long ago, when I was laboring long and hard on a new ministry project, and it felt as though I was standing totally alone against the world and the forces of darkness coming against me. I was feeling so weak and weary at times that I would hear my thoughts saying things like, "Isn't this work my assignment from God? Why, then, am I continually facing delays and disappointments?"

As I spent time alone in God's presence and in His Word, He ministered to me through His promises. He reminded me that He will never kick me when I'm down, or let me fall apart. On the contrary, He will encourage me and strengthen me, and He will enable me to shine brighter than ever for His glory. And those who come against me when I am doing His will? God Himself will deal with them.

The New Living Translation of Isaiah 42:3 says: "He will not crush the weakest reed or put out a flickering candle. He will bring justice to all who have been wronged." If you are feeling weak and weary today, I have good news for you. You have a Savior who loves you enough to die for you, and He is ever ready to encourage you and lift you up, and to fight your battles for you!

Prayer: Lord, I'm so thankful that even though You are a mighty and powerful God, You are also loving, gentle, and just. When I am feeling crushed or broken, remind me to turn to You first. Give me a trusting heart so that I will believe and act as though You truly care when I am hurting. Don't allow me to suffer in silence, but keep after me until I bring all my concerns and hurts to You. Today, I choose to look to You and cooperate with You, so You can minister hope and healing to me, and right all my wrongs!