The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.
Psalm 34:18 ESV
There is no way we can live in this world and avoid experiences of pain and pressure, suffering and stress , or discouragement and despair. The pain of brokenness is often the result of loss, grief, and hurtful situations. We are created in such a way that our emotional/mental health impacts our physical health. When we are in this place, our need for something beyond ourselves becomes more evident.
Psalm 34:18 offers us the word of hope and encouragement that we need. Eugene Peterson interprets this verse in The Message Bible as, “If your heart is broken, you’ll find God right there; if you’re kicked in the gut, he’ll help you catch your breath.” MSG
Recent events of violence, racism and implicit racial bias has "kicked us in the gut" and left us "breathless". Gun violence and Mental health are inextricably contributing to the brokenness in this world. And yet, psalm 34:18 offers us this hope:
God is with us.
God is not absent. God is always available and close to those who suffer. Not only is He near, but he stays with us and will help us get through moments of despair and directs us to work for justice, show kindness and live in humility. In our brokenness, God is there.
God gives us the strength to breathe again.
When the pain is too much. When the hurt and anger has left us speechless. We find hope and joy in knowing that God will give us our "second wind". God will help us catch our breath and come to our rescue. We can keep running the race and we can breath again.
Prayer
God we need to feel your presence and experience your healing power. Help us and heal us. Lead us and direct us to do what is right, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with You. Bless the brokenhearted and rescue those who are crushed in spirit. In Jesus name, Amen
Sacred Music
Andrae Crouch
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