God and the Brokenhearted

Chuckle: "A little boy kept looking at the rack of greeting cards. The clerk asked if she could help him -- birthday? Illness? Wedding? The boy shook his head no and answered wistfully, "Got anything in the line of blank report cards?"

Quote: "Be not miserable about what may happen tomorrow. The same everlasting Father, who cares for you today, will care for you tomorrow." --Francis deSales

"The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those who are crushed in spirit" (Psalm 34:18 NLT). "He heals the brokenhearted, binding up their wounds" (Psalm 147:3 NLT).

Wouldn't it be wonderful if we could escape the pain of grief, loss, disappointment, sorrow, and failure. But troubles are a part of life and come to all of us. God does not promise us trouble-free lives, but he does promise to be "close to the brokenhearted" and to be our source of strength, courage, and wisdom as he helps us to deal with our heartaches.

One of the most severe by-products of a broken heart is the deep sense of loneliness. When our hearts have been broken, everyone and everything around us can become distant, out of focus, and of limited value in helping us deal with the situation. On the other hand, if we turn to him, God not only has the answers for mending a broken heart, but he will actively participate in its healing. God makes some amazing promises to the brokenhearted.

Let's face it, the Christian life is not always easy. Broken hearts and disappointments are commonplace. They may be the result of an unfaithful spouse, a rebellious child, betrayal by a trusted friend, or from our own indiscretions and bad choices. There are times when everything is out of whack and nothing makes sense -- the whole world seems to be crumbling around you.

From our passage, we see that God not only understands, but is always near to the brokenhearted and wants to heal the wounds responsible for our sorrow. He will comfort the brokenhearted by his presence, compassion, a listening ear, abiding love, healing hand, encouragement, and blessings. When one of His children is brokenhearted, so is our Lord.

So, how should I react to a broken heart? When heartbreaking experiences come your way, don't get frustrated with God. Instead, admit that you need God's help and thank him for being by your side. Call to him in your time of need and be honest with your feelings. He loves you and will draw you close by his presence.

"Come quickly, Lord, and answer me, for my depression deepens. Don't turn away from me, or I will die. Let me hear of your unfailing love to me in the morning, for I am trusting you. Show me where to walk, for I have come to you in prayer" (Psalm 143:7-8 NLT).

Love, Jerry & Dotse