“The LORD is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.” (Psalm 34:18)
“My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” (2 Corinthians 12:9)
“There is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.” (Proverbs 18:24)
“God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” (Romans 5:8)
“Even though I walk through the valley of deep darkness, I will fear no evil, for you are with me.” (Psalm 23:4)
When we fail or fall short, our natural instinct is to think God is on the verge of leaving us. But Scripture tells us something very different. God draws near to the weak and the brokenhearted. Jesus came not for the righteous but for sinners. His strength shines most clearly when we have none of our own.
Think of Peter after he denied Jesus three times. If ever there was a moment to expect rejection, that was it. Yet after the resurrection, Jesus sought Peter out, restored him, and even entrusted him with caring for His people. The very place of Peter’s weakness became the place where Christ’s love was most powerfully displayed.
This is the heart of our Savior. He is not repelled by our failures but moved with compassion toward us. He is the friend who sticks closer than a brother. He is the Good Shepherd who walks with us through the darkest valleys. And He proved His love by dying for us while we were still sinners.
When you feel most unworthy, remember that this is when His mercy is closest. You do not need to hide from Him. You can come honestly, knowing His grace is sufficient and His love will never let you go.
Prayer
Lord, thank You that You draw near to me, not in my strength, but in my weakness. Thank You for being the Friend who never leaves, the Shepherd who walks with me in the darkest valley, and the Savior who died for me while I was still a sinner. Help me believe Your love is steady when I feel most undeserving. Teach me to rest in Your grace and walk in the freedom You give. Amen.