HELP FOR THE HURTING

TEXT:  "He healeth the broken in heart, and bindeth up their wounds." - Psalm 147:3

A lot of people are hurting these days.  We live in a world full of pain and heartache.  Sadly, we can easily get accustomed to such misery, no longer phased by the human suffering around us.

Much of the pain we encounter is not physical.  Instead, we encounter sad faces, moist eyes and frowns.  So many people are hurting.  It could be that you are one of these people.

There are many mistakes we make concerning the hurting people around us.  First, we overlook them.  We go about our daily business without noticing the little things that often indicate deeper pain.  Secondly, we give cheap clichés to those who suffer.  We say things like, "I know what you're going through," or "Time heals all pain."  It is better to say nothing than say such drivel.  Third, we tend to think that people quit hurting after a period of time.  We fail to follow up with them and see how they are doing.

I want to address my remarks to those who are hurting.  Perhaps you're brokenhearted right now.  Maybe you feel lower than a snake's navel in a wagon track.  It could be that your dreams have been shattered.  Regardless of the pain you are facing, let me share a few thoughts with you.

1.         GOD LOVES YOU

First of all, God loves you.  Others may have hurt you deeply, but God cares for you more than anyone else.  Although many people walk by you every day without showing any concern whatsoever, God loves you.

2.         GOD KNOWS

Secondly, God knows the pain you are facing.  He knows the depth of your despair.  He knows the degree of your grief.  He has seen all the tears you've shed.  He knows about your sleepless nights.

3.         GOD IS AVAILABLE

Next, God is available to talk with.  You don't have to schedule an appointment.  He is available right now to help with your problems.

4.         GOD IS ABLE

Also, God is able to heal broken hearts.  Our text, found in Psalm 147:3, teaches us that God heals brokenhearted people.  He is able to take the shattered pieces of your life and create a masterpiece.

5.         GOD CAN BE TRUSTED

Other people may have violated your trust, but God will not.  You can entrust Him with your case.  Bring your burdens to Him and trust Him to do what is right.

Although God is able to heal a broken heart in an instant, He often chooses to bring healing over a period of time, using many different methods.  Trust Him with your burdens right now.

It is amazing what God can do with a broken heart, if He is entrusted with all the pieces.