It’s Okay to Not Be Okay: Finding Grace in Brokenness

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“The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise.” — Psalm 51:17

Recently, while doing chores at home, the phrase "It's okay to not be okay" resonated with me deeply. I reflected on it and realized that the Holy Spirit was communicating with me about the challenges I've been experiencing lately, which have somewhat impacted my peace and my relationship with God. Consequently, I started meditating on His Word for encouragement and guidance.

There is an unspoken expectation within the Christian community to appear "fine." To maintain a smile despite experiencing pain, to cite Romans 8:28 even when your heart is breaking, and to continue presenting a strong front. However, Scripture does not require us to be emotionally perfect—it encourages authenticity and vulnerability.

Friends, God isn’t looking for perfect people. He’s looking for honest ones. Our opening scripture verse, Psalm 57:17 reminds us that God doesn’t reject our brokenness—He welcomes it. It’s not our strength that draws Him near, but our humility and willingness to come as we are.

The Reality of Brokenness

Throughout the Bible, we witness faithful individuals grappling with profound sorrow and uncertainty. David expresses his anguish in the Psalms, illustrating that lament can be a form of worship. For instance, he writes in Psalm 42: “Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me?” Elijah, after his great triumphs, sits under a broom tree, pleading with God to end his life (1 Kings 19:4). Naomi also faced loss and an identity crisis, declaring in Ruth 1:20, "Do not call me Naomi,” she said. “Call me Mara, because the Almighty has made my life very bitter.”

Naomi’s journey shows that grief does not exclude us from God’s plan; rather, her brokenness becomes the foundation for redemption. Her sorrow is woven into the lineage of Christ. Even Jesus, in Gethsemane, experiences such intense anguish that He sweats drops of blood (Luke 22:44).

These narratives are not indications of spiritual failure—they reflect deep human need. In each situation, God responds with gentleness, provision, and grace.

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Grace in the Middle of the Storm

Being “not okay” doesn’t mean God has left you. In fact, it often signifies that He is actively preparing you for something greater. In moments of struggle and turmoil, when life feels overwhelming and insurmountable, it can be easy to feel abandoned or isolated. However, it is during these challenging times that God is closest to us, working behind the scenes in ways we may not fully understand. He is molding our character, strengthening our faith, and teaching us resilience in the face of adversity.

“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” — Psalm 34:18

His grace doesn’t wait until we’ve pulled ourselves together. It meets us in the breakdown. In the confusion. In the late-night tears. In the silent prayers that sound more like sighs.

You’re Not Alone

God created us for connection—not just with Him, but with one another. Galatians 6:2 tells us to “carry each other’s burdens.” This means there’s divine permission to be vulnerable in community. To say, “I’m not okay,” and know that you’ll be loved through it—not rejected.

Sometimes grace comes through a friend’s listening ear, a counselor’s wisdom, or simply through space to breathe and grieve.

Hope Moves Through Honesty

Healing starts when we stop pretending. It begins when we allow ourselves to feel and trust that God is not daunted by our sorrow. He isn't waiting for us to "pull ourselves together," but desires to accompany us through every valley. Jesus came not for those who are well, but for those who are ill. Not for those who have it all together, but for the brokenhearted.

Beloved, you don't have to conceal your pain to maintain your faith. Feeling "not okay" could be the entrance through which grace enters. On the other side of this season, you might discover that your brokenness was the very ground where God's love took root. I'm sharing this with you today because I feel led to do so, and since it has ministered to my heart, I hope it also provides comfort and encouragement to those who need it as well.

Thank you for reading!

I remain Yours in The Faith,

Margaret (MKO)