Jun 29 – But I Am a Worm

“But I am a worm, and no man; a reproach of men, and despised by the people.” (Psalm 22:6).

Many saints, when they humbled themselves before God, called themselves worms, insects, dust, unworthy and insignificant beings, and even untimely births.

When Abraham humbled himself, he said: “Indeed now, I who am but dust and ashes, have taken it upon myself to speak to the Lord.” (Genesis 18:27). Moses humbled himself before God and said: “I am slow of speech and slow of tongue.” (Exodus 4:10).

Jeremiah said: “Ah, Lord God! Behold, I cannot speak, for I am a youth.” But the Lord replied, “Do not say, ‘I am a youth,’ for you shall go to all to whom I send you, and whatever I command you, you shall speak.” (Jeremiah 1:6–7).

Yes, the Lord used those who humbled themselves. God is able to take even a worm and use it as His instrument.

Even after David was anointed king, he did not immediately receive the throne. Saul hunted him like a partridge in the mountains. Deeply broken in spirit, David cried out: “I am a worm, and no man; a reproach of men, and despised by the people.”

Perhaps even today you too may be insulted, rejected, and considered insignificant by others. No one may seem to love you. But there is One who truly loves you—One who left heaven and came down to earth because of His love for you – our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.

Consider an earthworm. How pitiable its condition is! It cannot soar through the skies like a bird freely. It cannot run like the animals of the field.

Among God’s creations is the mighty elephant, walking majestically with its trunk raised and beautiful tusks displayed. Lions stand boldly with strength and dignity. But the worm seems so helpless. It cannot even walk upright like other creatures. As it crawls along the ground, it is crushed under the feet of passersby. It does not even have a voice to cry out.

Yet the Lord cares for you and me, though we may feel like worms. Peter says: “Cast all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:7).

Not only that—He is a loving Lord. When the Lord graciously cares for mankind, lovingly watches over man, and protects him, why should you be troubled? Why should you weep?

Verse for further meditation: “Because they called you an outcast saying: ‘This is Zion; no one seeks her,’ therefore I will restore health to you and heal you of your wounds, says the Lord.” (Jeremiah 30:17).