There are times in our lives when we encounter circumstances that can leave us broken-hearted and in despair. It could be that we have lost a loved one in death, or the financial situation we are faced with is more than we think we can bear, or maybe we have done something that has put our relationship with God at a distance. If any of this relates to you, God wants you to know that you are not alone, and He knows all about what you are going through. Our Bible Journaling verse today tells us, “The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit.” (Psalm 34:18 KJV)
The definition of contrite is “feeling or expressing remorse or penitence; affected by guilt.” Now, in the instances of the death of a loved one or financial hardship, there may be nothing for which we need to feel guilt, but those situations can surely leave us broken-hearted. The death of a loved one can engender deep feelings of sadness, and grief, such as around celebration times like birthdays, anniversaries, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. We miss them so much and our hearts are broken. God knows and understands and offers comfort and strength in those times. “As one whom his mother comforts, so I will comfort you; you shall be comforted in Jerusalem.” (Isaiah 66:13 ESV)
In the instance of a broken relationship with Him, He wants us to confess our sins, ask forgiveness, and make our way back to Him. Our verse says He saves those of a contrite spirit. Psalm 145:18 tells us, “The Lord is near to all who call on Him, to all who call on Him in truth.” (ESV) When we come to Him with a sincere heart and tell Him the things that have burdened our hearts, He is right there to help. Acts 17:27 says, “That they should seek God, in the hope that they might feel their way toward him and find him. Yet he is actually not far from each one of us,” (ESV) When we have a strained relationship with God, we must remember that it wasn’t God who moved…we did! What have we done to break fellowship with Him? We need to repent and ask forgiveness to restore that relationship. Not only do unbelievers need to do this to be saved from their sins, but Believers need to come to Jesus and ask His forgiveness for sins they commit or omit so that we can have a right standing with Him. “Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded.” (James 4:8 NASB1995)
It is a comfort to know that no matter what we are dealing with, God already knows, and He is ready and able to help us. “The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in him,” (Nahum 1:7 NIV) He loves us and wants to help us. We can trust Him with every situation and know that He has our back! Psalm 34:17 says, “The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles.” (NIV) I find great peace in knowing that God resides in the Believer, just at the whisper of His name, He will help us.
Are you experiencing a broken heart? Run…don’t walk, to Jesus. He’s all you need. He loves you and wants to be your help in times of trouble.
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