In what ways can we draw near to God during personal trials? The Heart of the Verse “The LORD is near to the brokenhearted; He saves those who are crushed in spirit.” (Psalm 34:18) What It Tells Us About God • Nearness is His present, continual posture toward the hurting—no delay, no distance. • Salvation here describes real rescue—He lifts, heals, and restores, not only eventually but in the moment of need. • Brokenhearted and crushed are literal descriptions; God does not minimize pain but meets us right there. Why We Can Trust This Promise • Scripture consistently shows God moving toward the suffering—Hagar (Genesis 16:13), Elijah (1 Kings 19:5–8), and the disciples in the storm (Matthew 14:25-27). • “For thus says the One who is high and lifted up… ‘I dwell… with the contrite and lowly of spirit.’” (Isaiah 57:15) • “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” (Hebrews 13:8) His character never shifts. Practical Ways to Draw Near During Trials • Speak honestly to Him – Pour out every fear, doubt, and tear (Psalm 62:8). – Use the Psalms as language when words fail. • Immerse your mind in His Word – Read aloud passages of comfort (Isaiah 41:10; Romans 8:31–39). – Memorize short promises; repeat them when anxiety spikes (Philippians 4:6-7). • Choose worship over withdrawal – Sing, even quietly; praise realigns focus (Psalm 22:3). – Join with believers; corporate praise magnifies courage (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Cast every burden deliberately – “Cast all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:7) – Visualize placing worries in His hands; refuse to reclaim them. • Recall past faithfulness – Keep a written record of answered prayers and providence (Psalm 77:11-12). – Testimony fuels present trust. • Serve someone else – Comfort with the comfort you receive (2 Corinthians 1:3-4). – Turning outward loosens the grip of self-focus and evidences God’s nearness through you. Scriptural Encouragements That Strengthen Perseverance • James 4:8: “Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.” • Hebrews 4:16: “Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence…” • Romans 8:26-27: The Spirit intercedes when words run out. • Psalm 147:3: “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” • Deuteronomy 31:8: “The LORD Himself goes before you… He will never leave you nor forsake you.” Living Out Psalm 34:18 Today • Replace lingering questions of “Why?” with confident declarations of “You are near.” • Frame every setback as another place where the Lord can prove His promise. • Expect His saving action—sometimes change of circumstance, always change of heart. Nothing about your trial is outside the range of this verse. Lean in. His nearness is literal, certain, and enough. |
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