What does this text tell us? It tells us that the people of God have broken hearts. This is a universal trait of everyone born again. It’s one reason why He’s near them, having been made nigh by the blood of Christ (Eph 2:13). So, this distinguishing quality of brokenness becomes a universal trait in the family of God. Many of them experience great affliction, which deeply troubles them, especially when it comes from the hand of a holy and gracious God. The heart of every child of God is broken on account of sin. The sin of their lives, in thought, word, and deed, and the sin of their original nature. Without question, sin is their greatest burden in this life, committed against God, grieving his Spirit, and crucifying the Lord of glory.
But they are also sensitive to the sins of others. They grieve at the brokenness of the body of Christ, the disrespect for the Word of God, and the law of God broken without thought. They are grieved for all the dishonors done to God; they “sigh and cry for the abominations done in the midst of the land” (Ezek 9:4). In just these ways, the heart of the child of God is broken for other’s sins. And when they have a view of the grace of God in Christ, and contrast it with the sinfulness of sin, and the corruption of their nature stained black with this awful thing, in a special way, it, humbles, grieves, and breaks their hearts.
To these, and these alone, the Lord is nigh. Close at hand, in tender love and care. His Spirit dwells in them to assure them of sins forgiven, and to revive, comfort, and heal their broken hearts. The blood of Jesus Christ applied to their consciences, purges them from guilt, and gives them peace and joy. They look up with humble confidence to God as their reconciled Father and Friend through Christ. They experience His powerful, faithful, and constant protection. He keeps them from every harmful thing so that it cannot destroy them. And He preserves them for His heavenly kingdom, where they will dwell in His immediate glorious presence. Where there is fullness of joy, and at His right hand, there are pleasures for evermore.
My broken heart for sin is a sign of the Lord’s nearness.