ISH MACH’OVOT
from You Version
Man of Sorrows
Isaiah 53.3
PRAYER
Man of Sorrows, I adore You. You left the heavenly splendor and died on the cross to show mankind what love is.
Thank You for Your love and undeserved suffering. You were rejected, accused, insulted, beaten, and crucified for undeserving ones like me.
Forgive me when I am numb to Your excruciating death on the cross and when my hardened heart does not respond to Your love and grace.
You know my weakness. You know how much I prefer an easy and comfortable life. Lord, please change my heart. I will take up my cross and share in Your suffering. Help me see the eternal purpose behind the pain.
Because You are the Man of Sorrows, I declare I will arm myself with the same attitude You had and be ready to suffer and endure hardship for You.
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A FEW FACTS…
- Ish Mach’ovot can also be transliterated as Ish Makh’ovot. The term Mach’ovot is derived from the word maḵ’ōḇ, which conveys the meanings of pain, grief, and sorrow, encompassing both physical and emotional suffering.
- The translation of Ish Mach’ovot often includes phrases such as “man of sorrows,” “man of suffering,” and occasionally “man of pains” in certain versions.
- The term “man of sorrows” originates from a Messianic prophecy in Isaiah 53. The prophet Isaiah vividly portrayed a suffering servant, serving as a poignant depiction of Christ’s agonizing experiences.
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EXERCISE 1:
TWO-WAY JOURNALING
Today, we have the opportunity to address the Man of Sorrows in a heartfelt letter. Unlike the communal experience of meditating on His sacrifice during communion at church, where we are usually guided by a leader, this moment is unique. It is just you and Him in this intimate “secret place.” What thoughts or questions would you like to share with the One who gave His life for you? Let us pray for the Holy Spirit to provide guidance as you pen your dialogue with Him.
[Part 1]
Dear Man of Sorrows, …
[Part 2]
Dear (your name), …
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EXERCISE 2:
DECLARATION
As the Man of Sorrows, He intimately understands pain and suffering. How does His nature connect with your present-day life? Write a simple declaration that holds personal significance.
Because You are the Man of Sorrows, I declare I can / I will / I am…
Read your declaration aloud, allowing Him and yourself to hear those words repeatedly. Allow them to penetrate deeply within you, taking root in your heart and mind.
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BLESSINGS
Today marks the end of Day 20 of our remarkable journey, and we find ourselves two-thirds of the way there. I eagerly anticipate numerous heart-to-heart encounters with Him in the days to come. On this momentous day, my prayer is for you to realize that YOU are the reason He endured the cross, as stated in Hebrews 12:2, being “the joy that was set before Him.”