A Broken Dispenser and God's Grace

The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. Psalms 34:18 (NIV)

Do you know how sometimes you hear something on the TV or radio or see something, and the Spirit sparks something within your soul? Yesterday morning at the gym, a handwritten note taped to a paper towel dispenser caught my eye. It read, “Please be gentle; I’m broken inside.” I chuckled to myself at first, but the words lingered as I moved through my workout, sparking a quiet reflection. They reminded me of times when I, too, felt fragile and longed for kindness and gentleness from others.

This pleasant request on the dispenser led me down two paths: God’s compassionate nature and Jesus' command to us to love others.

Throughout the Bible, we see the depth of God's gentleness toward humanity. Psalms 147:3 assures us that "He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds," revealing His tender care. God's love extends to all aspects of our lives, even when we falter. Isaiah 41:10 proclaims: "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." His unending grace and mercy serve as a beacon of hope, reminding us that we are never truly alone in our struggles.

As followers of Christ, we are called to mirror His kindness and gentleness in our interactions with others. Ephesians 4:32 encourages us: "Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you." Jesus embodied these qualities throughout His earthly ministry, offering forgiveness, healing, and understanding to those He encountered. In Matthew 11:29, He invites us: "Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls." This call to gentleness challenges us to let go of judgment and extend grace to others. Galatians 5:22-23 highlights kindness and gentleness as fruits of the Spirit, reminding us that these virtues are evidence of God working within us. By living out these qualities, we reflect Jesus' love and become vessels of His peace and encouragement in a world longing for compassion.

This small moment—a note on a broken dispenser—reminds us how everyday situations can spark profound spiritual truths. Even in the moments of our brokenness, we are encouraged to show gentleness and care. Just as God draws near to the brokenhearted, we are called to reflect His love and compassion in all we do. Where might God be calling you to show gentleness in your life today? By choosing kindness and gentleness, we become instruments of God’s healing and grace in a world yearning for restoration.

Gracious and loving God, thank You for being close to us in our brokenness and for saving us when we feel crushed in spirit. We are grateful for Your unfailing compassion and the example of love and gentleness You have shown through Jesus. Lord, help us to be attentive to the needs of others and to embody Your kindness in our actions and words. May we reflect Your love in a world that often feels fractured. Strengthen, guide, and use us as vessels of Your peace. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Blessings,

Pastor Tim