Broken but Not Crushed
Written By Ahava 

Psalms 34:18
The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.
 
All deaths are tragic and result in loss. When it is our immediate family or one of our friends, it affects us in a deeper personal way. There are no human words that can be expressed to make you feel better. The only source of comfort is God’s word. 

In Psalms 34:18, God states a personal promise to you. He says to you, when your heart is broken, come close to Him because He is already close to you. He knows this tragic event that took place has broken your heart. He is close to prevent you from becoming crushed in spirit. 

How do you prevent becoming crushed in spirit? Do not deny the pain. Do not hold in the tears. In order to heal properly from this loss, you must go through the mourning process.
 
When you feel the tears welling up within you, do not hold them in. Step away to a private place and allow yourself to cry. Lift up your heart and talk to the Lord and tell Him exactly what you are feeling at that moment. What ever you are feeling speak it out honestly. God knows all your emotions anyway.  Even if you feel anger, tell God how you feel.
 
If you hold in your emotions, it can harm you physically by tearing down your health and creating sickness within. It is best to release the burden of your heart through tears or talking it out with a trusted confidant. Don’t hold in your emotions.
 
There is a time to be strong on behalf of the family and children.
There is a time to be strong on behalf of your friends and their family.
That time is during the funeral service. At that time you are the giver of strength.
Afterward you need to be the receiver of strength for yourself.
You receive your strength by turning to God and allowing Him to be strong for you. 

God is the strong man on your behalf.
 
Remember, God’s word is true. Psalm 34:18 is a promise that God is aware of your broken heart and He alone has the ultimate love for you to hold you up through this time and to breathe the healing power of the Holy Spirit into your wounded heart.
 
Do not draw away from God during this time of grief. Call unto Him and He will answer you. Remember, it is by faith that you became a Believer, now all things must continue through faith. Do not allow the enemy to try your faith during this time.
Trust God through all things.