loneliness | A Satisfied Spirit

We live in a world of more than 8 billion people (7.87 billion in 2021). With that many people, why is it so common to feel alone at times?

God creates loneliness in us so we will seek Him. When we do this He gives us wisdom and understanding. (Proverbs 4:5) When we are troubled, stressed, and just plain tired He gives us strength. (1 Chronicles 16:11)

Merriam-Webster defines this feeling as being without company/cut off from others. In Hebrew, it can also mean solitude and desert.

Yet, this (God) was something Jesus sought often. In nine different passages of the Gospels, He goes to a solitary place to seek God. (I’m sure there were more!) Why? Because He needed to set apart alone time, to be away from other people and distractions, to seek His Father’s will. (Luke 9:18)

We are rewarded when we diligently seek God. (Hebrews 11:6) When we spend set apart time with Him what we ask we will receive, what we seek we will find, when we knock He will open the door. (Matthew 7:7-8)

Abba, Father, help us recognize that our feelings of aloneness are invitations from You to talk. Open our hearts to Your welcoming voice. Comfort us and give us the peace that comes from being in Your Presence.

Oh, Jesus, where are you…

…when the violence in this world is creating fear and chaos all around?

…when my heart is aching from yet another stab in the back?

…when I recognize my sin is more than I can bear?

…when a child is so sick?

…when the love of my life is losing strength?

…when loneliness is pressing in like the darkness of night?

…when leadership is not showing faith in You?

…when resources are running low?

…when there’s no joy or delight in the day?

And He answered…

No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful and He will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation He will provide a way of escape, that you may be able to endure it. 1 Corinthians 10:16

And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to His purpose. Romans 8:28

If you ask me anything in my name, I will do it. John 14:14

What I’m trying to do here is to get you to relax, to not be so preoccupied with getting, so you can respond to God’s giving. People who don’t know God and the way He works fuss over these things, but you know both God and how He works. Steep yourself in God-reality, God-initiative, God-provisions. Don’t worry. Give your entire attention to what God is doing right now, and don’t get worked up about what may or may not happen tomorrow. God will help you deal with whatever hard things come up when the time comes, without missing out. You’ll find all your everyday human concerns will be met. Matthew 6:31-34 MSG

Heavenly Father, let your Word be constantly on my mind. Draw me closer and closer to You. Give me strength, courage and wisdom for all that happens. Make it so in Jesus name.