Watchman: Remember Jesus, Whom the Prophets Foretold Would Be “Despised and Rejected. . . . Like One From Whom People Hide Their Faces He Was ­Despised, and We Held Him in Low ­Esteem” (Isaiah 53:3)

Created with GIMP

Fools show their annoyance at once, but the prudent overlook an insult. Proverbs 12:16

I've always thought that the ancient adage "Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me" is a little overstated. Harsh words, name-calling, and insults sting, especially when delivered by individuals we thought we could trust. Being insulted, especially by a stranger, is never pleasant.

As a result, our natural tendency is to defend ourselves and respond to an insult. People shouldn't treat us like that, we think, and in most circumstances, they shouldn't.

But, this adage suggests the reverse. Why? Why would it be stupid to react angrily straight away and prudent to ignore an insult? Wouldn't that merely encourage people to continue harming us and others?

To be clear, it is critical that inappropriate and harmful behavior is appropriately addressed. But, this does not imply that the appropriate response is to respond in kind.

Recall Jesus, who the prophets predicted would be "despised and rejected... He was despised, and we held him in low respect, like one from whom people hide their faces" (Isaiah 53:3).

Because he knew who he was, what he was sent to do, and how much the Father loved him, Jesus was able to ignore hundreds, if not thousands, of insults, jeers, and rejections.

Can we do the same thing?

Father, help me to live in your love and remember who I am in you, regardless of what others say. Please assist me in finding strength in you. Amen.

The Great Tribulation

It is our belief that the Great Tribulation referred to in the New Testament Book of Revelation (chapters 6-11) is unfolding before our eyes. In the near future, we will devote the "Tribulation" tab on our "Trending" menu to this emerging reality. As people continue to unplug from mainstream media, our commitment is to present the truth and encourage our audience to understand current events from a Biblical perspective. Click here to begin the journey.

The Watchman

In the Bible, the Watchman is responsible for keeping watch and warning others of potential danger or impending judgment. The role is mentioned several times in the Old Testament, particularly in the book of Ezekiel. In Ezekiel 33:6, God says to the prophet Ezekiel, "But if the watchman sees the sword coming and does not blow the trumpet, so that the people are not warned, and the sword comes and takes any one of them, that person is taken away in his iniquity, but his blood I will require at the watchman's hand." Click here to begin the journey.

Will Putin Attack Israel?

Trending Topics

Leave a Comment