Never Too Broken: Finding Hope for the Broken in God’s Love
Matthew 18:11-14: “11 For the Son of Man has come to save that which was lost. 12 What do you think? If a man has a hundred sheep, and one of them goes astray, does he not leave the ninety-nine and go to the mountains to seek the one that is straying? 13 And if he should find it, assuredly, I say to you, he rejoices more over that sheep than over the ninety-nine that did not go astray. 14 Even so it is not the will of your Father who is in heaven that one of these little ones should perish” (NKJV).
Misguided Words Can Wound the Broken
A couple of weeks ago, I attended a place of worship for the first time. While I will keep the name of the church private, I must confess that I have no plans to return. During the sermon, the pastor boldly declared, “Broken people cannot be helped.” To my dismay, at least half of the congregation responded in agreement.
This statement left me heartbroken and perplexed. I cannot reconcile such words with the teachings of Scripture. Psalm 34:18 states, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit” (NIV). Does this not align perfectly with Matthew 18:14? Jesus came to save the lost, to mend the broken. His ministry was rooted in compassion and restoration. So how could such a message—that broken people cannot be helped—be preached from the pulpit?
Finding a Church That Offers Hope for the Broken
If you are searching for a church where you can heal and grow, let me encourage you: such churches exist. There are places where love, authenticity, and faith thrive, and where the broken are embraced and restored. Scripture assures us that if we seek God earnestly, we will find Him (Deuteronomy 4:29; Proverbs 8:17; Jeremiah 29:13).
Take your time to visit different churches. Ask a trusted coworker for recommendations or search online for congregations in your area. You will find a place where the Holy Spirit will guide you home, just as He has done for me. In every state I have lived, God led me to a community that nourished my faith and restored my soul.
A Prayer for the Broken
If you feel broken, I invite you to pray. Prayer doesn’t have to be perfect or elaborate; it just needs to be sincere. Romans 8:26 reminds us that the Spirit intercedes for us in our weakness, even when we don’t have the words. Here is a simple prayer to guide you:
Heavenly Father, I ask You to help me today. Give me the strength to make it through this day. You know my issues. You know my past and present circumstances. You know my brokenness, and I want to be healed and delivered. Guide me to a place of worship where authentic leadership and love abound, and I can mature in faith. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.
My Journey to Healing and Hope
Four years ago, I faced a breaking point. Overwhelmed by depression and past traumas, I struggled to get out of bed, let alone face the world. My pain manifested in destructive behaviors—addictions, anger, and isolation. Eventually, I sought professional counseling. My therapist not only helped me regain confidence but also encouraged me to find a church.
Joining a faith community transformed my life. Counseling equipped me with tools to heal, and the church offered spiritual guidance that deepened my faith. God delivered me from my addictions and surrounded me with people who showed me love and acceptance. Through His grace, I found hope for the broken parts of my life.
The Eternal Hope Found in Christ
Nothing heals like the love of the Heavenly Father. Material possessions, relationships, and fleeting pleasures may provide temporary comfort, but they cannot address the root of our brokenness. Only the Holy Spirit can bring lasting healing. Dedicate your heart to faith and trust in God’s power to deliver you.
Hosea 4:6 warns, “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge…” (NKJV). Many suffer because they do not realize the hope available through Christ. Allowing the Holy Spirit to transform us gives us strength to endure life’s challenges and trust in God’s plan for restoration.
You Are Never Too Broken to Be Healed
No matter where you are in life, God sees you, loves you, and wants to restore you. You are never too broken to be fixed, never too lost to be found. Hold on to hope, for you are more than a conqueror. God’s love is waiting for you.
Be well in grace and peace!
Blue Wolf Penman