#221 THE LORD IS NEAR 10-2-26

Life can sometimes make us feel terribly alone. We may be surrounded by people and still feel isolated. We may pray and wonder if anyone is listening. We may carry burdens that nobody else can see.

The Bible gives us a beautiful assurance: “The LORD is near to those who have a broken heart, and saves such as have a contrite spirit” (Psalm 34:18).

THE PRESENCE OF GOD

The first comfort is simply this: God is near. We do not always feel His presence, but our feelings do not determine His faithfulness. David did not say that the Lord is near only when everything is going well. He said the Lord is near to the brokenhearted. When the heart is hurting, God is not standing at a distance.

Jesus said, “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28). The God who sees the sparrow fall also sees the tears that fall from our eyes. “The LORD is near to all who call upon Him, to all who call upon Him in truth” (Psalm 145:18).

THE POWER OF GOD

God’s nearness is not merely comforting; it is powerful. He does not simply stand beside us while we suffer. He gives strength to endure what we could never carry by ourselves.

Paul learned this when the Lord told him, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:9). Sometimes God changes the circumstance. Sometimes He changes us in the circumstance. Either way, His grace is enough.

“He gives power to the weak, and to those who have no might He increases strength” (Isaiah 40:29). You may reach the end of your own strength, but you will never reach the end of His.

THE PROMISE OF GOD

Finally, we have His promise. God does not abandon His children when the road becomes difficult. Hebrews 13:5 gives us this assurance: “I will never leave you nor forsake you.”

That promise reaches across every valley. When tomorrow is uncertain, He is there. When yesterday hurts, He is there. When today feels overwhelming, He is there.

Jesus promised His disciples, “I am with you always, even to the end of the age” (Matthew 28:20). The Christian does not walk through this world alone. We walk with Christ.

So if your heart is broken today, remember Psalm 34:18. The Lord is near. His presence surrounds you, His power sustains you, and His promise holds you. The night may be long, but God has not moved. His hand is still upon you, and His presence is still with you.

The Lord is near.

BDD