Everyone needs a degree of privacy, but there is a difference between being by yourself and feeling alone. You can be surrounded with people and still feel lonely. God did not design us to be alone. He designed us to be “all one,” complete in Him and His purpose. The answer to loneliness includes purpose. Our purpose will always network us with others.
Some of the most miserable people I know are those who avoid relationships. Isolation breeds loneliness and hopelessness. Purpose births relationships that generate hope. Be an open-minded, non-judgmental, positive, caring person and you will need an answering machine to help handle all the calls. You will even look forward to the “quiet times.” Loneliness disappears when you look beyond yourself and minister God’s love to the needs of others.
I John 4:16
“God is love, and he that dwelleth in love, dwelleth in God, and God in him.”
Practical Application and Assignments:
When self-pity attaches itself to loneliness, depression is inevitable. The best antidote is to get your focus off of yourself.
- Open your door. Invite others into your life. For example, conduct a Bible study or support group. Consider caring for a foster child. Adopt a pet… Someone needs you!
- Don’t isolate yourself when you feel lonely. Learn to be comfortable being alone. Give yourself a night off occasionally. Take yourself out to dinner or to a concert. Treat yourself to a movie. Surprise yourself and enjoy the evening.
- Read Psalm, chapter 139. God is omnipresent. His presence is inescapable. He is there when you wake up and while you are sleeping. Recognize His presence and you will never feel alone! “In Him we live and move and have our being.” Acts, 17:28
“Surely, the righteous shall give thanks unto Thy name; the upright shall dwell in Thy presence.” Psalm 140:13
