“The Lord is close to those who are brokenhearted and saves those who have a crushed spirit” (Psalm 34:18 ESV). This verse provides a deep sense of comfort to those struggling with emotional pain. During times of distress and despair, this scripture serves as a guiding light, reminding us that God is always with us and has promised to rescue us from our grief.
The Promise of Proximity:
The first words of Psalm 34:18 affirm that the Lord is near to those who have a broken heart. This closeness implies that God is aware of our pain and intimately involved in it. This echoes the sentiment of Psalm 139:7-10, where David wonders how God’s presence is inescapable. David wonders, “Where shall I go from your Spirit? Or where shall I flee from your presence? If I ascend to heaven, you are there! If I make my bed in Sheol, you are there! If I take the wings of the morning and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea, even there your hand shall lead me, and your right hand shall hold me” (Psalm 139:7–10 ESV).
Isaiah 41:10 is a comforting reminder that we don’t have to be afraid because God is always with us. The verse reads, “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand” (Isaiah 41:10 ESV). This means we can trust in God’s protection and guidance in difficult times, knowing He is there to support and strengthen us. It’s a powerful message of hope and reassurance we can hold onto when we feel overwhelmed or anxious.
The Act of Salvation:
Psalm 34:18 indicates that God is close to us and assures us of salvation when we feel down and brokenhearted. In times of great difficulty, knowing that God is not apathetic to our pain but is working to rescue us is comforting.
Psalm 147:3 provides a beautiful and powerful description of God’s nature as a healer. This verse assures us that God is willing and able to heal our broken hearts and bind up any wounds we may have, both physical and emotional. This aligns with the promise in Psalm 34:18, which emphasizes God’s role as the ultimate healer of our wounded spirits. These verses bring comfort and hope to those struggling, reminding us that God’s love and healing power are always available to us.
Examples of God’s Deliverance:
The Bible is an entire story that illustrates God’s faithfulness to those who are brokenhearted. The story of Job is a powerful example of restoration after a period of profound suffering. Even though he lost his wealth, health, and family, Job remained steadfast, and God eventually restored twice as much as he had lost (Job 42:10).
In conclusion, Psalm 34:18 is a timeless reminder that even amid our most profound moments of sorrow, God is near and actively working toward our deliverance. By looking at the cross-referenced scriptures, we can understand God’s character holistically, emphasizing His closeness, healing nature, and redemptive power. As we meditate on these promises, may our broken hearts find comfort and hope in the steadfast love of the Lord.