Anchor My Faith

Author: Stephen Weller
934 words, 5 minutes read time

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The Brokenhearted

The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit. (Psalm 34:18 ESV)

This verse is found at the end of a series of four related verses. Starting at 15, the Lord is focused on the righteous who cry out for help but stands in opposition to those who do evil (verse 16). When the righteous cry for help, he hears them and delivers them. We find the Lord close to those who are brokenhearted, and he saves those who have been crushed in spirit.

In my studies of those who live under persecution, I find so many ways in which people become brokenhearted and seem almost unable to press on, but God is there for them and “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds” (Psalm 147:3 ESV). Through the prophecy of Isaiah, we learn that Jesus has been anointed to bring good news to the poor, to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and to open the prisons of those who are bound (from Isaiah 61:1). Those who suffer so much, the Lord is close to them through “the fellowship of his suffering” (Philippians 3:10 NASB).

 When doing a search on “crushed in spirit” the result obtained is “brokenhearted.” A brokenhearted one is also crushed in spirit. An example of one is illustrated in Luke 15:17 – 24 and concerns the younger son who went away and wasted his inheritance in wild living. Finding himself in desperate need, he comes to himself and conceives a plan to humbly return to his father, not as a son but as a hired servant.

It is a humble and contrite spirit of one that trembles at his word that draws the attention of the Lord (Isaiah 66:2). In Isaiah 57:15, The Lord is described as “One who is high and lifted up, who inhabits eternity, whose name is Holy, [who dwells] in the high and holy place” is also described as being “with him who is of a contrite and lowly spirit, to revive the spirit of the lowly, and to revive the heart of the contrite.”

Salvation is found by those who come humbly to the Lord in loving obedience to walk with him wherever he takes us. “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble. Submit yourselves therefore to God. . . Draw near to [him], and he will draw near to you” (James 4:6 – 8 ESV). Father thank you for being near to the brokenhearted and those crushed in spirit.

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Summary Theme

God’s Nearness to the Brokenhearted

Summary Paragraph

Psalm 34:18 reveals the compassionate heart of God toward those who are suffering inwardly. It declares that the Lord is not distant or indifferent but draws especially near to those who are brokenhearted and crushed in spirit. The “brokenhearted” describes those weighed down by grief, loss, or sorrow, while the “crushed in spirit” points to those humbled, repentant, or overwhelmed by life’s burdens. Rather than rejecting such individuals, God responds with nearness and salvation, offering comfort, restoration, and hope. This verse assures believers that in their deepest pain, God’s presence is most intimate and His saving power most evident.

Discussion Questions with Extended Answers:

1. What does it mean that the Lord is “near to the brokenhearted”?
   Answer:
   God’s nearness refers to His active, personal presence with those who are hurting. It is not merely a general awareness but a relational closeness in which He comforts, strengthens, and sustains. This nearness means that God sees every sorrow, understands every pain, and responds with compassion. For the believer, it assures that suffering is never endured alone; God draws especially close in times of emotional and spiritual distress.
2. Who are the “brokenhearted” and the “crushed in spirit”?
   Answer:
   The “brokenhearted” are those experiencing deep emotional pain—such as grief, disappointment, or loss. The “crushed in spirit” includes those who are humbled, discouraged, or brought low, often recognizing their need for God. This can include both those suffering from life’s hardships and those convicted of sin. In both cases, the verse emphasizes that God’s attention and care are directed toward those who are lowly and dependent on Him.
3. What does it mean that God “saves” such people?
   Answer:
   God’s salvation in this context includes both immediate and ultimate deliverance. Immediately, He rescues by providing comfort, peace, and strength to endure trials. Ultimately, He saves by restoring the soul and securing eternal life through His redemptive work. This salvation demonstrates that God not only sympathizes with human suffering but actively works to bring healing and redemption.
4. How does this verse change our understanding of suffering?
   Answer:
   This verse reframes suffering as a place where God’s presence is uniquely experienced. Instead of seeing pain as evidence of God’s absence, it reveals that hardship can draw believers closer to Him. Suffering becomes an opportunity to experience God’s compassion, dependence on Him, and His sustaining grace. It encourages believers to turn toward God rather than away from Him in times of distress.
5. How should believers respond when they feel brokenhearted?
   Answer:
   Believers should respond by turning to God in honesty and faith, bringing their pain before Him in prayer. Rather than hiding or withdrawing, they are invited to trust in His nearness and care. This includes seeking His comfort through Scripture, prayer, and fellowship with other believers. Trusting God in brokenness allows His presence to bring healing, peace, and renewed hope.