From an Insignificant Worm to a Victor

Daily Devotional – Tuesday, March 21, 2023
“Fear not, you worm Jacob, you men of Israel! I will help you,” says the LORD and your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel.
Isaiah 40:14 (NKJV)

I first encountered worms as a child. These organisms were in plenty especially during the weeding season. As I lost fear of the wriggling creatures, I started holding them in my hands and playing with them.

Inconsequential Organisms

Later, I learned worms could be useful as animal feed. I would collect them as feed them to our chicken. Other birds would also have their fill when I was distracted. As a teenager, I started using the organism as bait for trapping fish.

Worms remain among the lowest and most despised classes of organisms. Human beings trample on them and use them for personal benefit, as I used to do in my childhood. Unless you are a scientists / agriculturalist, worms have no major consequence to you.

You Worm Jacob

Now, here is an interesting verse connected to worms: ““Fear not, you worm Jacob, you men of Israel! I will help you,” says the LORD and your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel.” (Isaiah 40:14). Why does God compare His people to an lowly, unimportant creature?

Here is the reason. Israel is surrounded by powerful nations that can trample the children of Jacob at will. The Israelites are as weak and helpless as worms before their mighty enemies. They are few and feeble, incapable of mounting a formidable defense if attacked.

Winners by God’s Power

How significant, though, is it that this seemingly derogatory depiction appears in the statement that assures Israel of God’s protection and help! God in contrasting the attitude pagan nations have against His people vis-à-vis how He regards Israel.

In other words, “To your enemies you are weak, poor and insignificant but to me you are my crown jewel. I am your Redeemer. If you trust in me, I will help you. You shall overcome your mighty enemies by My power.” (Read verses 15-16).

From an Insignificant Worm to a Victor

Such is the privilege of acknowledging our weakness and aligning ourselves with God! To those who despise and hate you, you are a worm but to God you are a victor. Your current circumstances depict you as a helpless worm but God promises to make you victorious.

Today, if you feel lowly, despised, oppressed, lost, discouraged and hopeless, trust the God who transforms His faithful people from insignificant worms to victors. Do not allow your current unfavourable situation to define you. You are a winner.

Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You because by Your grace and power, I am not a mere worm but a victor.