and Psalm 34:18 (NIV)
“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
Biblical Context
David wrote this psalm after escaping danger. He’d been afraid, desperate, and broken. Yet in his pain, he discovered something: God didn’t abandon him. God came close. This isn’t a verse for people who have it all together. Rather, it’s a promise for people who are hurting, crushed, and barely holding on.
Reflection
Injuries, losing, and being benched all hurt. And sometimes, life off the field hits even harder. Family struggles, broken relationships, loss, disappointment that cuts deeper than any physical pain.
Thankfully, Psalm 34:18 is a promise for those seasons of brokenness: God doesn’t walk away when you’re down. He doesn’t distance Himself when you’re hurting. On the contrary, He draws closer, sees the pain others miss, and enters it with you.
You don’t need to fake strength, hide your hurt or pretend you’re fine. Instead, you can bring it to the God who cares. He won’t waste your pain. He’ll walk with you through it.
Application
So today, talk to God honestly about what hurts. Don’t sugarcoat it. Let Him meet you in it.
Prayer Guide
God, I need You in my pain. Draw near to me. Heal what I can’t fix, and when I’m broken, be my strength.
Reflect & Share
Check in on someone who’s going through a hard time. Maybe they’re injured, struggling, or just quiet lately. Let them know you see them. If they’re open to it, pray with them. Remember, sometimes, simply showing up matters more than words.
Compete with Faith. Grow with His Word.
Previous Devotional: November 18 – Train for Godliness
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