RIGHTFUL ESTIMATE OF SELF (III)
“The grass withers and the flowers fall, because the breath of the Lord blows on them. Surely the people are grass.” Isaiah 40:7 NIV
Isaiah 40 marks the beginning of what many Bible scholars refer to as “Second Isaiah,” a turning point in the book.
Prior chapters largely delivered messages of judgment against Israel for their idolatry and rebellion. But here, a shift occurs—the tone becomes one of comfort, restoration, and divine promise.
Though grass and flowers symbolize beauty and vitality, they are also images of fragility and impermanence. In the same way, all human strength, pride, and accomplishments are fleeting. They wither under the breath of God—an expression of His supreme sovereignty and power. Nothing of mankind stands apart from His will.
Yet this is not a message of despair—it is one of divine encouragement. Isaiah reminds us that even in our weakness and frailty, the breath of God—His Holy Spirit—can blow upon us and transform us. He makes fragile and imperfect people strong and courageous, fit for their divine assignment on earth.
So be encouraged, child of God. When you come face-to-face with your own weakness, let your heart echo the words of Paul: “I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me… For when I am weak, then I am strong.” (2 Corinthians 12:9–10)
Prayer: Father, thank You for reminding me of my true condition apart from You—frail, fleeting, and utterly dependent on Your grace. Yet I rejoice, because in my weakness, Your strength is made perfect. Let Your breath, Holy Spirit, blow upon me today. Transform my weakness into strength for Your glory, and make me a vessel fit for Your purpose. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
CI.
RELATED RESOURCES
• 2 Corinthians 12:9
• Isaiah 41:2-4
