The blessing of brokenness

How does God use adversity in our lives, asks Eric Gaudion? This is a question many of us ask out of painful experiences in our lives or families.

Martin Luther, a famous historical figure from an era that became known as ‘the Reformation’ in Europe, said: “It is God’s nature to make something out of nothing; hence one who is not yet nothing, out of them God cannot make anything.”

Luther went on to point out that God only accepts the forsaken, cures only the sick, gives sight only to the blind, restores life only to the dead, sanctifies only sinners, and gives wisdom only to the unwise.

So, to qualify for the lifegiving mercy, healing and grace that flows from our God, requires us to come as we are, bereaved, broken, bleeding or bruised, honestly and from the heart confessing our need of him.

Jesus is attracted to brokenness like a moth to a flame. He spent most of his ministry with broken people. Even his closest disciples were flawed men, arguing among themselves about their own self-importance, and folding under the pressure of interrogation. Prostitutes, drunkards and lepers called Jesus their friend. They knew their need. Only those who know their true condition of desperate need qualify for the care of a physician.

The blessing of brokenness is that it makes us ready to receive grace. Yet, brokenness is such a difficult place at which to arrive, and often only after a terrifying journey.

story continues…