Thursday, December 17
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No crushed reed will he break,
and no smoldering wick will he extinguish.

—Isa. 42:3.
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Jesus understood the feelings of those who were figuratively like a bruised reed or the wick of an oil lamp about to go out. As a result, he was considerate, kind, and patient.

(Mark 10:14)

Of course, we do not have Jesus’ insight and teaching ability! But we can—and should—be considerate of the people in our territory. That includes how we speak to them, when we do so, and for how long. Today, countless millions have been “skinned and thrown about” by corrupt and heartless commercial, political, and religious leaders.

(Matt. 9:36)

As a result, many people are cynical and without hope. How important, then, that we be kind and compassionate in our choice of words and also in our tone of voice! Indeed, many are drawn to our message not only because of our Bible knowledge or sound reasoning but also because of our genuine interest in them and our thoughtful manner.

w18.09 31-32 ¶13-14​

 

The scripture uses interesting metaphor. Skin is protective, a protective layer. The leaders were removing from people thier own natural sense of protection, perhaps to make them feel purposely vunerable and then 'thrown about' perhaps not literal but 'destablised'.

The term 'Gaslighting' has become common parlance, for intentionally removing peoples sense of self in order to gain power over them.

 

Matthew 9:36 On seeing the crowds he felt pity+ for them, because they were skinned* and thrown about like sheep without a shepherd.