Comfort

“The LORD is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.”

Psalm 34:18 (ESV)

Comfort becomes something different as you get older. It is no longer a luxury or a reward. It is a necessity. There are seasons when life has taken enough that you can no longer pretend strength is endless.

You have learned how to show up for others. You know how to listen, encourage, and hold space for pain. What is harder is allowing yourself to need the same care. Somewhere along the way, you were taught that faith meant pushing through instead of slowing down.

But Scripture shows us a God who draws near, not one who demands performance. He comes close when hearts are broken and spirits are crushed. Not to correct, but to stay.

Comfort does not always look like answers. Often it looks like presence. Quiet moments when God meets you in the exhaustion. Times when a verse steadies your breathing or tears finally come after being held back too long.

Sketchy faith does not rush healing. It lets comfort do its slow, necessary work. It releases the need to explain away pain and instead allows God to sit with it.

If you feel worn down, it is not because you lack faith. It is because you have carried much for a long time. God does not ask you to be strong right now. He offers Himself instead.

Personal action:

Today, give yourself permission to receive comfort. Sit quietly, read this verse again, and invite God to meet you exactly where you are.

Alycia Neighbours