“The LORD is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those whose spirits are crushed.” (Psalm 34:18 NLT)
Life has a way of bringing seasons of deep disappointment, grief, and heartache. Sometimes the burdens become so heavy that our spirit feels crushed beneath the weight of loss, failure, rejection, loneliness, or sorrow. In those moments, it may seem as though no one understands what we are experiencing.
Yet God does
One of the most comforting truths in Scripture is that God draws especially near to those who are hurting. He does not distance Himself from the brokenhearted; He comes close to them. He sees every tear, hears every cry, and understands every pain. While others may overlook our suffering, God never does.
A crushed spirit is not a sign that God has abandoned you. Often it is an opportunity for Him to reveal His compassion, comfort, and healing in a deeper way. The Lord specializes in restoring hearts that have been wounded and reviving spirits that have grown weary.
God Does Not Despise a Broken Spirit
“The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and a contrite heart, O God, You will not despise.” (Psalm 51:17)
God welcomes those who come to Him in humility and honesty. He never rejects a heart that seeks Him.
God Restores and Heals the Spirit
“For thus says the One who is high and lifted up, who inhabits eternity, whose name is Holy: ‘I dwell in a high and holy place, and with the oppressed and humble of spirit, to restore the spirit of the lowly and revive the heart of the contrite.’” (Isa. 57:15)
The God who reigns over eternity also dwells with those who are hurting. His desire is to restore, revive, and strengthen them.
“He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” (Psalm 147:3)
No wound is too deep for the healing touch of God.
A Joyful Heart Is Good Medicine
“A joyful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.” (Prov. 17:22 ESV)
God understands the damaging effects of prolonged discouragement. That is why He offers His joy, peace, and presence as healing for our souls.
Therefore
When you feel crushed in spirit, do not pull away from God. Run to Him. He is closer than you realize and more compassionate than you can imagine. Bring Him your hurts, disappointments, fears, and tears. He is the healer of broken hearts and the restorer of weary souls. Trust Him to revive your spirit, renew your hope, and restore your joy one day at a time.
“Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and uphold me with a willing spirit.” (Psalm 51:12)
Quote
“We want to avoid suffering, death, sin, ashes. But we live in a world crushed and broken and torn, a world God Himself visited to redeem. We receive his poured-out life, and being allowed the high privilege of suffering with Him, may then pour ourselves out for others.” — Elisabeth Elliot