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A Smoldering Reed

by Karen Weaver

My husband’s battle with cancer had the two of us on a roller coaster ride of optimism and dashed hopes.  I was so angry with God that I was ready to explode!

In the midst of this terrible trial,  I attended a Christian women’s conference.  As I sat with folded arms the speaker got my attention when she asked, “Have you ever been angry with God?”  Then she read the scripture:

The Lord says, “A bruised reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out.  In faithfulness he will bring forth justice.”  Isaiah 42:3

Later I walked to my car thinking, “God this reed is about to snap.  If any wick is smoldering, I can’t see it.”

Back home, I turned to Job 23.  As I read each verse, I slapped the page angrily, until I came to verse 10: “God knows the way that I take; when He has tested me, I will come forth as gold.”  Then I stopped.  Knowing that gold is refined through exposure to tremendous heat that separates out the impurities, I saw a connection to my situation.  Suddenly I became aware of the impurities within me—especially jealousy, resentment, and self-pity.  I asked God for help and forgiveness.  Calm replaced my anger and peace replaced my fear.  In the weeks that followed, I continued to examine my attitudes and to ask for forgiveness. Though God’s words did not change my circumstances, they did change my heart.  God does not say that a reed can’t be bruised or that a candle can’t burn low.  But God has promised to always be present and faithful in giving us strength to find victory over the struggle.

Prayer:  Dear God, we do not understand suffering, but we do know that you take care of us.  When we rail against you, replace our anger with trust.  Amen.

From:  Karen S, Weaver, “The God Standard,” in “The Upper Room,” March-April, 2016.