Key Scripture: “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” — Psalm 34:18 (NIV)

With Hurricane Milton making landfall on the heels of Helene, many are facing what feels like an unrelenting wave of disaster. Homes are destroyed, lives have been lost, and for those left behind, the road to recovery seems impossible. The loss of property, income, and even the spirit to move forward weighs heavily on many hearts. Denials of FEMA assistance or the inability to apply because of power outages only add to the feeling of hopelessness.

When disaster seems to strike over and over, it’s easy to feel abandoned and question where God is in the middle of all this suffering. But Psalm 34:18 reminds us that God is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. When we are at our lowest, when the storms of life feel too much to bear, God draws near to comfort and strengthen us.

Even in the darkest moments, when it feels like everything is falling apart, God is still present. He sees every tear and hears every cry. Though it may seem like things are going from bad to worse, God’s love for us is constant, and His presence is a refuge in times of trouble. He does not promise that we will be spared from suffering, but He does promise to walk with us through it.

Right now, many are feeling crushed by loss, grief, and the uncertainty of what comes next. But even when hope feels distant, we are encouraged to hold on. God has a way of turning even the worst situations into opportunities for His grace and mercy to shine. It’s in these moments that we learn to trust Him more deeply, to lean on Him as our shelter and source of strength.

The process of rebuilding may be slow, and the answers may not come as quickly as we hope, but God’s faithfulness is unwavering. He is near, and His heart is with the brokenhearted. Even in disaster after disaster, God is our refuge, our healer, and our hope.

Ending Prayer: Heavenly Father, in this time of overwhelming loss and devastation, I ask for Your comfort and presence to be felt by all who are suffering. Lord, it feels like disaster after disaster, and many are losing hope. But I trust that You are close to the brokenhearted, and You save those who are crushed in spirit. Help us to hold on to Your promises, even when everything around us feels uncertain. Give us the strength to rebuild and the faith to trust You in these difficult times. Thank You for being our refuge and our ever-present help in times of trouble. In Jesus’ name, Amen.