Proverbs 18:14 The spirit of a man will sustain his infirmity; but a wounded spirit who can bear?
‘But a wounded spirit who can bear?’ In contrast, a broken, crushed, or wounded spirit, whether from grief, guilt, despair, betrayal, or depression, can become unbearable. When a person’s inner life collapses, no amount of external comfort or help seems enough. This rhetorical question implies that such sorrow can be crippling and isolating. The body may be strong, but when the spirit is wounded, life itself can feel unbearable. The most devastating affliction is not always physical, but emotional and spiritual.
Examples of a wounded spirit: Cain was crushed by guilt after murdering Abel, he cried, “My punishment is greater than I can bear” (Gen. 4:13-14). Eli’s daughter-in-law, upon hearing of her husband and father-in-law’s death and the Ark’s capture, died in despair, naming her son Ichabod, meaning ‘the glory is departed.’ (1Sam. 4:19-22). Saul was overwhelmed by fear and spiritual desolation after being rejected by God (1Sam. 28:20). Ahithophel took his own life when his advice was rejected, showing his wounded pride and despair (2Sam. 17:23). Zimri burned the king’s house down upon himself in desperation, rather than face defeat (1Kin. 16:18). Pashur, after mistreating Jeremiah, was rejected and publicly humiliated, and beared the name “terror on every side” (Jer. 20:4). Judas Iscariot returned the silver and hanged himself when he was filled with guilt and shame after betraying Jesus (Matt. 27:5). To be continued…
Living the Word 