Zacharias and Elizabeth had given up hope on having a child. Elizabeth was barren and well beyond child bearing age. This all changed one day as Zacharias served in the temple. An angel appeared to him with a promise from God, "“Do not be afraid, Zacharias, for your prayer is heard; and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall call his name John." (Luke 1:13) Zacharias was skeptical, but God delivered on His promise and many lives were changed. No matter how bleak things look, remember as long as God is on the throne there is always hope and hope in Him will never disappoint (Romans 5:5)! 

Psalm 146 is the next psalm in the crescendo of praise continuing through chapter 150. A fitting end to a wondrous collection of songs dedicated to God's grace, mercy, protection, and provision.

When you and I enter into the presence of God, we must do so with a heart of humility and a sense of our dependence upon Him.

The Hebrew word for broken in Psalm 34:18 is better understood as destroyed. Like a ship being torn in two from bow to stern rendering it decimated and sinking. This type of brokenness leaves one without hope, helpless, and maybe even considering death as the only way out. The good news of our Lord, is that He "is near to those who have a broken heart." If you have accepted Christ, the Holy Spirit lives inside of you and according to Romans 8:26, 27, "He makes intercession for the saints according to the will of God."