Smoldering Wick Season

"A bruised reed He will not break,
and a smoking flax He will not quench;
He will bring forth justice for truth" (Isaiah 42:3).

I have known a number of saints who have gone through what could be called smoking flax seasons of life.  There is a weariness from carrying burdens, a spiritual cramping as they run this life's marathon.  The flame of the candle had been blown out and all that remained was smoke and a tiny spark at the end of the wick.  The Lord had not departed but it seemed His fire was gone and His light was faint.

The other night when I blew out a candle after dinner, I dipped my finger in a glass of water and held a little drop over the smoking flax until the drop fell and with a fizzle quenched the small glowing spark at the end of the wick.  I immediately remembered Isaiah 42:3 and thanked the Lord that He will never do that.  His promise is that He will not quench even the most feeble of sparks.

If you are in a smoking flax season, please know that it is the Lord's heart to cup His hand around your heart and by His Spirit to gently breathe upon you until that spark puffs into a flame.  Such is His grace and His tender care for the weak and the weary.  Trust your loving Shepherd who will never forsake you.