Scripture
6 I offered my back to those who beat me,
my cheeks to those who pulled out my beard;
I did not hide my face
from mocking and spitting.
7 Because the Sovereign Lord helps me,
I will not be disgraced.
Therefore have I set my face like flint,
and I know I will not be put to shame.
Reflection
This passage is about how we respond to those who attack us. Our tendency is to read this verse and think of strangers or enemies who attack us, and we forget that some of our deepest pains are the result of being hurt by someone we allowed ourselves to be vulnerable towards. Indeed we are hurt most by those we trust – parents, friends, spouses, and children.
So how do we respond to those hurts? God calls us to find our strength in Him, hold our head up high, and be confident in His goodness in us. If your parents rejected you, your spouse belittled you, or your friends betrayed you, do not be disgraced. Allow God’s abiding love to affirm you, knowing that He created you with fear and trembling and He loves you without condition.
Thoughts for the day
- What does this passage tell you about God or Jesus?
- What does this passage tell you about humanity?
- What do you feel God is telling you through this passage?
- How can you apply this message in an area of your life that needs transformation?
- Is there anyone you think should hear or will benefit from this message? Go and tell them.
Prayer
Perfect Love. Pray that the perfect love of Christ will cast out fear and anxiety that creeps into our hearts from fake news and misinformation.
