35 Bible Verses About Brokenness
By Marisa D'Amore · · Updated
Quick Answer
What these verses teach
Scripture does not ignore brokenness; it shows God's nearness to the hurting and His ability to bring beauty from surrendered pain. These verses are for seasons when you need comfort and honest hope.
Key Takeaways
- Start with God's nearness in broken places; that is the thread tying these Scriptures together.
- Read the verses slowly, then pray them back to God in your own words.
- Before you move on, choose one practical step for bringing pain to God without pretending it is small.
Hi friends! As we review these 35 Bible verses about brokenness, let’s hold onto the truth that God is intimately involved in every aspect of our lives. He meets us in our pain, offering comfort, healing and hope. In His presence, we find the strength to face each day and the promise of a future filled with joy and peace. Let these scriptures be a guide and a comfort as you journey through life, knowing that in every moment of brokenness, God is there, turning our trials into triumphs and our pain into praise.
Bible Verses About Brokenness
1. Psalm 34:18 – The Lord Is Close to the Brokenhearted
“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
This verse is a gentle reminder that in our moments of sheer brokenness, we are not alone. The Lord doesn’t distance Himself from us when we are hurting; instead, He draws nearer. He’s not just a bystander in our suffering; He is our savior and healer.
2. Isaiah 57:15 – Revival of the Spirit
“For this is what the high and exalted One says—He who lives forever, whose name is holy: ‘I live in a high and holy place, but also with the one who is contrite and lowly in spirit, to revive the spirit of the lowly and to revive the heart of the contrite.’”
God’s majesty doesn’t keep Him from understanding our pain. He resides in the heavens but also with every one of us. This verse offers such a beautiful picture of God’s humility and love. He is eager to lift us from our despair and breathe new life into our weary souls.
3. Matthew 11:28 – Rest for the Weary
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”
Jesus extends an open invitation to those weighed down by life’s burdens. This verse speaks directly to the hearts that are broken, offering a safe haven of rest. He doesn’t just offer temporary relief but a deep, soul-restoring rest. Let go and let God take over.
4. Psalm 147:3 – Healing for the Brokenhearted
“He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.”
Not only does God recognize our pain, but He also acts on our behalf, bringing healing and wholeness. This verse is a testament to God’s tender care for His children. He is the ultimate healer, not just of physical ailments but of deep emotional wounds. Each tear we shed is precious to Him, and He is committed to turning our mourning into dancing.
5. 2 Corinthians 12:9 – Strength in Weakness
“But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.”
Weakness is often seen as something to be hidden or fixed. Yet, this verse flips that notion on its head, showing us that admitting our brokenness draws Christ’s power to us. As we embrace our vulnerabilities we find God’s strength. Our brokenness becomes a canvas for His grace and power.
6. Psalm 51:17 – A Broken Spirit
“My sacrifice, O God, is a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart you, God, will not despise.”
God treasures a heart that is open, honest and acknowledges its own brokenness. This verse shows that our brokenness, when brought before God, becomes a beautiful sacrifice. We don’t have to be perfect, but we need to be real with God about where we are. He doesn’t turn away from us in those moments; rather, He draws near, ready to start the beautiful work of healing and renewal.
7. 1 Peter 4:19 – Suffering According to God’s Will
“So then, those who suffer according to God’s will should commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue to do good.”
Even in the midst of suffering and brokenness, there’s a call to trust in God’s sovereignty. This verse encourages us to keep doing good, even when we’re hurting. It’s a reminder that our pain is not pointless and that we have a faithful Creator who is with us through every moment of suffering, weaving our brokenness into a greater story of redemption and hope.
8. Romans 8:28 – God Works in All Things
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”
Sometimes, brokenness feels like the end of the story, but this verse promises that God is working in every situation for our good. Even when we can’t see it, our moments of pain are not wasted. God is at work, transforming our trials into testimonies and our brokenness into beauty.
9. Psalm 30:5 – Joy Comes in the Morning
“For his anger lasts only a moment, but his favor lasts a lifetime; weeping may stay for the night, but rejoicing comes in the morning.”
This verse is a vivid picture of hope. It acknowledges the reality of our pain and sorrow but also promises that it won’t last forever. With God, there’s always a time of joy after a season of tears. It encourages us to hold on through our brokenness, for joy is on the horizon.
10. 2 Corinthians 4:8-9 – Not Crushed or Abandoned
“We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.”
Paul’s words here offer immense encouragement. Even in the midst of deep trials and brokenness, we are not overcome. This verse reminds us that no matter how broken we feel, we are not alone, not forsaken and certainly not beyond repair. There is resilience in placing our hope and trust in God.
11. Jeremiah 29:11 – Plans to Prosper You
“‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the LORD, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’”
In our brokenness, it’s easy to lose sight of the future, but this verse reassures us of God’s good and loving plans for our lives. Our current pain does not define our future. God has plans for our prosperity, hope and restoration.
12. Psalm 73:26 – God Is the Strength of My Heart
“My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.”
This verse acknowledges our physical and emotional limitations but points us to the eternal and unfailing source of strength. Even when we feel like we can’t go on, God is the sustaining force behind our hearts, offering the strength we need to face another day.
13. Lamentations 3:22-23 – New Mercies Every Morning
“Because of the LORD’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”
In the midst of our brokenness, this verse is a tender reminder of God’s unfailing love and mercy. Every day is a fresh start, a new opportunity to experience God’s faithfulness. No matter how broken we feel, His love holds us together, offering hope and healing with each new dawn.
14. Philippians 4:13 – Strength to Do All Things
“I can do all this through him who gives me strength.”
Even in our lowest moments, this verse reminds us that our capabilities are not limited by our brokenness. Through Christ, we find the strength to overcome, to heal and to move forward. This verse is a powerful declaration of faith and resilience in the face of adversity.
15. Isaiah 40:29 – Strength to the Weary
“He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.”
This verse speaks directly to those feeling drained by their brokenness. God sees our weariness and responds with strength. In moments when we feel we can’t possibly go on, God steps in, offering His power and strength to carry us through.
16. James 4:8 – Draw Near to God
“Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.”
This verse invites us to take the first step towards God in our brokenness. It promises that when we reach out to Him, He meets us where we are. It’s a call to purification and intimacy with God, reminding us that no matter our past, we can always seek His presence and find solace.
17. Isaiah 41:10 – Do Not Fear
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
Fear often accompanies brokenness, but this verse speaks powerful words of comfort and assurance. God is with us, offering His strength, help and support. The promise of His presence is a constant reminder that we are never alone, no matter how broken we feel.
18. Proverbs 3:5-6 – Trust in the Lord
“Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
In times of brokenness, understanding our situation or seeing a way out might be challenging. This verse encourages us to trust God beyond our comprehension, promising guidance and clarity as we surrender to His will.
19. Psalm 145:14 – God Uplifts the Fallen
“The LORD upholds all who fall and lifts up all who are bowed down.”
God’s care for His children is beautifully depicted in this verse. He is always ready to support and elevate those crushed by life’s burdens. It’s a comforting reminder that in our lowest points, God is there to lift us up.
20. John 16:33 – Overcoming the World
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
Jesus doesn’t promise a life without troubles, but He offers peace amidst them. This verse reminds us of the victory we have in Christ. Despite the brokenness of the world, we can find peace in Him, knowing He has conquered all.
21. Romans 5:3-5 – Suffering Produces Perseverance
“Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.”
These verses show us the purpose behind our pain. Our trials and brokenness can lead to growth, character development and a deeper hope anchored in God’s love for us.
22. Psalm 34:19 – Deliverance for the Righteous
“The righteous person may have many troubles, but the LORD delivers him from them all;”
This verse reassures us that although we face many challenges, God is our deliverer. No matter the depth of our brokenness, God is capable of rescuing us from every trial.
23. 1 Peter 5:7 – Casting Cares on Him
“Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.”
In our brokenness, we often carry burdens that are too heavy for us. This verse invites us to release those burdens to God, reminding us of His care and concern for every aspect of our lives.
24. Psalm 55:22 – Sustaining Support
“Cast your cares on the LORD and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken.”
Similar to 1 Peter 5:7, this verse emphasizes God’s sustaining support. He not only takes our burdens but also ensures that we are not overwhelmed by them.
25. Isaiah 43:2 – When You Pass Through Waters
“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.”
This verse is a powerful declaration of God’s protection and presence through life’s most challenging moments. It assures us that no matter what we face, we are not alone, and we will not be overtaken.
26. Psalm 46:1 – God, Our Refuge and Strength
“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.”
In times of brokenness, this verse reminds us that God is a safe place and a source of power. He is always available to help us, no matter the circumstances.
27. Philippians 1:6 – Confidence in God’s Work
“Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”
Even in our brokenness, God is at work in us. This verse encourages us to have confidence in His ongoing work in our lives, shaping us to be more like Christ.
28. Psalm 18:2 – The Lord, My Rock
“The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.”
When we feel shaken by the trials of life, this verse reminds us of the solid foundation we have in God. He is a dependable protector and savior, offering us a place of safety.
29. Zephaniah 3:17 – The Lord Rejoices Over You
“The LORD your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in his love he will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing.”
This verse beautifully illustrates God’s love for us. Even in our brokenness, He delights in us and celebrates our journey towards healing and restoration.
30. Hebrews 4:15-16 – Approach God’s Throne with Confidence
“For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin. Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.”
These verses encourage us to come boldly before God, knowing that Jesus understands our struggles and offers us grace and mercy in our moments of need.
31. Psalm 9:9-10 – The Lord Is a Refuge for the Oppressed
“The LORD is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. Those who know your name trust in you, for you, LORD, have never forsaken those who seek you.”
God is our protector. This verse reassures us that those who seek God and trust in His name will never be abandoned.
32. Psalm 31:7 – Rejoicing in God’s Love
“I will be glad and rejoice in your love, for you saw my affliction and knew the anguish of my soul.”
God’s love is a source of joy, even in the midst of our afflictions. This verse reminds us that God is intimately acquainted with our struggles and meets us with His love.
33. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 – Comfort in Affliction
“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.”
God not only comforts us in our brokenness but also empowers us to comfort others. This verse highlights the communal aspect of healing and the way God’s comfort is meant to be shared.
34. Isaiah 54:10 – God’s Unfailing Love
“‘Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed,’ says the LORD, who has compassion on you.”
Amidst the most tumultuous times, God’s love remains steadfast. This verse offers profound assurance of His unchanging affection and peace towards us.
35. Psalm 56:8 – God Keeps Track of Our Sorrows
“You have kept count of my tossings; put my tears in your bottle. Are they not in your book?”
This verse poignantly expresses God’s attentiveness to our suffering. Each tear we shed is precious to Him, a reminder that we are seen, valued, and loved in our most broken moments.
Our brokenness is not the end of our story. With God, it’s often just the beginning of a journey into a deeper understanding of His love, grace and redemption. Let these scriptures be a reminder that in every moment of pain, God is with you, working all things together for your good. In our surrender - we find His strength. In our tears - we find His comforting embrace. In His hands - what was broken can be made beautiful again.
FAQ
What does the Bible say about feeling broken?
The Bible acknowledges our moments of brokenness and offers comfort, healing and the promise of God’s nearness during such times.
Can God heal a broken heart?
Yes, scriptures like Psalm 147:3 affirm that God heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds, showcasing His role as the ultimate healer.
How do I find God in my brokenness?
Finding God in brokenness involves turning to Him in prayer, immersing yourself in His Word and being open to the comfort and guidance He provides through the Holy Spirit and community.
Is it okay to show weakness according to the Bible?
The Bible actually highlights the value of acknowledging weakness, as 2 Corinthians 12:9 states that God’s power is made perfect in our weakness.
How can I experience healing from my brokenness?
Healing begins with bringing your pain to God, trusting in His promises and allowing His love and grace to fill and mend the broken areas of your life.
What does the Bible say about healing broken hearts?
The Bible offers numerous verses about healing for the brokenhearted, such as Psalm 147:3, which says, “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.”
Can God use my brokenness for good?
Yes, Romans 8:28 assures us that God can work all things, including our brokenness, for the good of those who love Him.
Is it okay to feel weak and broken?
Absolutely, 2 Corinthians 12:9 reminds us that God’s power is made perfect in our weakness, showing that our vulnerabilities can actually showcase God’s strength.
How can I find joy in my brokenness?
Finding joy in brokenness comes from focusing on God’s promises, celebrating small victories and maintaining a heart of gratitude even in trials.
Is it normal to feel broken as a Christian?
Feeling broken is a common human experience, including for Christians. It’s an opportunity to experience God’s strength and grace in our weakness.
What is the first step towards healing from brokenness?
The first step towards healing is often acknowledging our brokenness before God and seeking His comfort and guidance, as highlighted in many of the verses discussed.
35 Bible Verses About Brokenness at a glance
| Verse | Theme | Key line |
|---|---|---|
| Psalm 34:18 | The Lord Is Close to the Brokenhearted | The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. |
| Isaiah 57:15 | Revival of the Spirit | For this is what the high and exalted One says—He who lives forever, whose name is holy: 'I live in a high… |
| Matthew 11:28 | Rest for the Weary | Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. |
| Psalm 147:3 | Healing for the Brokenhearted | He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds. |
| 2 Corinthians 12:9 | Strength in Weakness | But he said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore I… |
| Psalm 51:17 | A Broken Spirit | My sacrifice, O God, is a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart you, God, will not despise. |
| 1 Peter 4:19 | Suffering According to God’s Will | So then, those who suffer according to God’s will should commit themselves to their faithful Creator and… |
| Romans 8:28 | God Works in All Things | And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according… |
| Psalm 30:5 | Joy Comes in the Morning | For his anger lasts only a moment, but his favor lasts a lifetime; weeping may stay for the night, but… |
| 2 Corinthians 4:8-9 | Not Crushed or Abandoned | We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not… |
| Jeremiah 29:11 | Plans to Prosper You | For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the LORD, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to… |
| Psalm 73:26 | God Is the Strength of My Heart | My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. |
| Lamentations 3:22-23 | New Mercies Every Morning | Because of the LORD’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every… |
| Philippians 4:13 | Strength to Do All Things | I can do all this through him who gives me strength. |
| Isaiah 40:29 | Strength to the Weary | He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. |
| James 4:8 | Draw Near to God | Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you… |
| Isaiah 41:10 | Do Not Fear | So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you;… |
| Proverbs 3:5-6 | Trust in the Lord | Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him,… |
| Psalm 145:14 | God Uplifts the Fallen | The LORD upholds all who fall and lifts up all who are bowed down. |
| John 16:33 | Overcoming the World | I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take… |
| Romans 5:3-5 | Suffering Produces Perseverance | Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance;… |
| Psalm 34:19 | Deliverance for the Righteous | The righteous person may have many troubles, but the LORD delivers him from them all; |
| 1 Peter 5:7 | Casting Cares on Him | Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. |
| Psalm 55:22 | Sustaining Support | Cast your cares on the LORD and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken. |
| Isaiah 43:2 | When You Pass Through Waters | When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not… |
| Psalm 46:1 | God, Our Refuge and Strength | God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. |
| Philippians 1:6 | Confidence in God’s Work | Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of… |
| Psalm 18:2 | The Lord, My Rock | The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and… |
| Zephaniah 3:17 | The Lord Rejoices Over You | The LORD your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in his love… |
| Hebrews 4:15-16 | Approach God’s Throne with Confidence | For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been… |
| Psalm 9:9-10 | The Lord Is a Refuge for the Oppressed | The LORD is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. Those who know your name trust in… |
| Psalm 31:7 | Rejoicing in God’s Love | I will be glad and rejoice in your love, for you saw my affliction and knew the anguish of my soul. |
| 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 | Comfort in Affliction | Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all… |
| Isaiah 54:10 | God’s Unfailing Love | Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor… |
| Psalm 56:8 | God Keeps Track of Our Sorrows | You have kept count of my tossings; put my tears in your bottle. Are they not in your book? |
Study This Topic Further
This page is part of the Healing and Restoration hub, where related Scripture collections are grouped for deeper study.
Printable Resource
A printable prayer guide for brokenness, restoration, resilience, and hope after hard seasons.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main message of Bible verses about brokenness?
The heart of this collection is God's nearness in broken places: every verse approaches that same truth from a different angle so it can move from your head into your daily life.
How can I use these verses this week?
Choose one verse from this collection, write it in your journal, and turn it into a short prayer about bringing pain to God without pretending it is small.
What should I focus on while reading these Scriptures?
Keep God's nearness in broken places in view as you read. Move slowly, and pray each verse back to God in your own words instead of rushing to the next passage.
Is there a printable resource that goes with these verses?
Yes. The Healing and Restoration Prayer Guide is a free printable companion: A printable prayer guide for brokenness, restoration, resilience, and hope after hard seasons.
Which Scripture collections should I read after Bible verses about brokenness?
This collection is part of the Healing and Restoration hub. Closely related collections include Bible verses about holistic healing, Bible verses about restoration, Bible verses about adversity, Bible verses for strength and hope after failure.
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