Loneliness: an opportunity to experience “God with us”
Do you ever feel alone? Does it ever feel like you are doing this thing called life all by yourself? Do you ever feel like all the chips are against you?
We’ve all been there; many of us reading this blog are in that lonely place this very moment. I experience this feeling in my own life in a number of different ways and every time it is a feeling of dread that I wish to escape from at all costs even if its an unhealthy way. I was reminded today of a truth that has helped me to view my times of loneliness in a different light. I think that if you’ll apply this to your life it will also help you to view your loneliness through a different lens as well.
In God’s story there is a piece of literature called Isaiah. In the 7th chapter of Isaiah there is a word spoken to King Ahaz by Isaiah about a baby that is born who will be called Immanuel (which means “God with Us”) and before that baby is weaned Aram and Israel (the two countries trying to force an alliance and kick Ahaz off the throne of Judah) will be destroyed by Assyria. In essence, Isaiah tells Ahaz that this force that is bringing loneliness (the thought of losing the throne; being persecuted; etc) will pass and that ultimately this child is the reminder that regardless of the present circumstance God is with you. And that these pressures will pass but God will always be with you. It was this text that the gospel writers later used to describe the birth of Jesus as this shout from God that “I am with you.”
I want to encourage you today to remember that through Jesus, God is with you. Your loneliness is an opportunity to remember that you are not alone. Your loneliness is an opportunity to experience the loving presence of God that promises never to dessert you but to hold you in the palm of His hands throughout your life. I want to encourage you to look at times of loneliness not as things to avoid but as chances to grow closer to a God that promises to be with you and that this promise will outlive any circumstance of loneliness that you will ever experience in this life and into all eternity. I love you with the love of my King!
Peace,
Pastor P
chadpullins@connect2crossroads.com; www.wedesiremore.com
Thank you for this! It’s amazing how sometimes a person can be surrounded by dozens of people, yet that person still feels alone. I believe lonliness is one of the most painful things a person can experience… Thank you again for sharing this! It is strength for many!
Thanks for the word of encouragement. It would’ve been wonderful if you had shared some real life experience. May God bless you.