“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Psalm 34:18 (NIV)
Devotion
Grief has various forms, and sometimes its sources can remain hidden beneath the surface. Whether it’s the weight of unspoken burdens, the ache of unfulfilled dreams, or the sorrow that lingers in the depths of our hearts, God sees and understands our hidden sources of grief.
Psalm 34:18 offers solace to those whose grief is concealed: “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” This verse reminds us that God is intimately acquainted with our pain, even the pain we may not fully express or understand ourselves.
Hidden sources of grief might include unaddressed wounds, unfulfilled expectations, or silent struggles. In these moments, God invites us to bring our burdens to Him, trusting that He is near to the brokenhearted and is ready to provide comfort and healing.
Consider the story of Hannah in 1 Samuel 1:10-20. She silently carried the burden of infertility, and in her anguish, she poured out her heart to God. God saw her hidden grief, and in His time, He granted her the desire of her heart.
Practical steps in addressing hidden sources of grief involve honest reflection, opening up to trusted friends or professionals, and, most importantly, seeking God’s presence through prayer. As you navigate hidden sorrows, may Psalm 34:18 be a source of comfort, assuring you that the Lord is close to the brokenhearted.
