READ: GENESIS 16:13; PSALM 34:17-22; 2 CORINTHIANS 1:3-4

“The LORD is close to the brokenhearted” (Psalm 34:18). He knows about every one of your heartbreaks, both big and small. God knows when you’ve been having a tough day or year. It’s not always easy to see God during those times, but He sees you. He sees you during a breakup, and He wants to help you through it. He sees you when you lose a loved one, and He is ready to comfort you.

God is close when things go wrong. When humanity’s sin brought brokenness to creation, God was heartbroken. Yet He was determined to restore what had been lost and unite us to Himself again. That’s why Jesus came. He is “God with us” (Matthew 1:23), and He was born into this messy world where so many things are wrong, because He loves us. He died and rose again to defeat sin and death. When He returns He will finally heal every brokenness, and right now He sits beside us in our sorrows, weeping with us, comforting us, and strengthening us.

If you know Jesus, His presence is always with you. He reminds you that you will be alright because He is holding you. It might still take time. Your heart might be slow to heal from the loss of a loved one or something horrible you experienced, but you will have His comfort through it all. Remember Psalm 34:18 says God is close to you when you’re brokenhearted; He saves you when your spirit is crushed. If you’re going through any kind of heartache now, remember that God is near. He is ready to give you comfort and peace. You can rest knowing that He is with you, and He will help you through this time. • Bethany Acker

• What kinds of heartbreaking things have you experienced lately? How might God be inviting you to receive His comfort?

• One of the primary ways God helps His people is through His people. If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed by loss, or experiencing sadness that won’t go away, who are trusted adults in your life you can talk to, such as parents, pastors, counselors, or teachers? If you’re not sure who to talk to, you can set up an appointment for a one-time complimentary phone consultation with a Christian counselor through the Focus on the Family Counseling Service. In the United States, call 1-855-771-HELP (4357) weekdays 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. (Mountain Time) to set up an appointment. In Canada, book your appointment by calling 1-800-661-9800 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. (Pacific Time) and ask to speak with the care associate.

The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. Psalm 34:18 (NIV)