The LORD is near to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. Psalm 34:18
“Not a sorrow, not a burden, not a temptation, not a bereavement, not a disappointment, not a care, not a groan or tear, but has its antidote in God’s rich and inexhaustible resources.”
George C. Lorimer (1838-1904) American pastor in Dictionary of Burning Words of Brilliant Writers, compiled by Josiah Hotchkiss Gilbert (New York: Wilbur B. Ketcham, 1895) 282.
Life is filled with highs and lows, isn’t it? My time with UMC foundation administrators in Virginia has gone very well. It has far exceeded my expectations! I return home tonight joyful, and yet, my heart is also heavy.
Jenni took a meal to a woman in church on Monday night who has stage four cancer. Not good. The cancer has spread. Then, in catching up on emails, I learned that an EFCA colleague died when his house burned down. Tragic! Yet another pastor emailed me discouraged because his grown son is out of work.
In the solitude of my hotel room lifting up prayers for those who groan and shed tears, I came across this gem of a quote. Lorimer rightly reminds us that every trouble in the world finds its antidote in “God’s rich and inexhaustible resources.” That’s good news worth celebrating.
Friends, our generous LORD is near to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit! When “LORD” appears in biblical texts, it points to the personal nature of God toward people. The LORD is not distant; He is near, and He saves.
O LORD, hear our prayers for the brokenhearted today and minister to them from your rich and inexhaustible resources. Still our hearts to hear your voice when you call us to care for them. Help us obey. May they feel your presence and rejoice in your salvation for you, O LORD, are mighty to save. Amen.