here is my take.
Make sure your front calipers are working right, grease the slide pins, make sure the surface the pads slide on isn't all jacked up and file it smooth if needed. Buy some cheap plain rotors, i've never found a difference in plain jane brake rotors, from autzone's cheap value craft ones to brembo's.... Try getting the PFC carbon metallic brake pads(autozone among others sells them). I have found they last a very long time, are easy on rotors, no noise, minimal dust, dont cost THAT much ect ect and they increased the braking my jeep had compared to whatever the previous owner had.
also DONT FORGET TO MAKE SURE YOUR BACK BRAKES ARE WORKING RIGHT!!!! this is very important to proper pedal feel and braking. Follow the FSM and adjust the rear shoes correctly and make sure they rear shoes are not contaminated with brake fluid/gear oil ect ect.
my 98' XJ brakes very well with this setup. And finally, you can replace the soft brake lines, should only cost you around $35 or so total and if they are old they can add the spongey feel to the brakes. SPeaking of which so can old brake fluid. BRake fluid should be changed every two years.