Loneliness impacts us physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually, “the effects are distinct enough to be measured over time.” Quote by Marano. God is moved on behalf of those who feel deeply isolated even in the presence of others. Grief can be desperately lonely, we all grieve many different things all through our lives: people, relationships, jobs, communities, afflictions, assaults, losses of every kind.
Elijah’s state of mind as he fled from Jezabel was one of great despair and grief, he asked the Lord if he could die-forgetting about the miracles that he had just experienced from God with the sacrifice of the many prophets of Baal. He had forgotten that he was not alone against Jezabel, his peace was challenged. When we turn to God, He will nurture relationships, build trust, and demonstrate mercy for our good and for His Glory.
God sent Naomi to Ruth as a companion, their relationship teaches us about commitment and loyalty. Ruth was a Moabite daughter-in-law of a Jewess named Naomi. Ruth’s unwavering commitment to Naomi evident when she refuses to leave her side even after Naomi encourages her to return home. “Whither thou goest, I will go: and where thou lodgest, I will lodge: thy people will be my people. “Ruth 1:16. They had mutual support, despite cultural differences, their relationship also shows the faithfulness of God! People who have been through lots of trauma are grieving, they have been wounded by the trauma, by the betrayal, the rejection. People in pain are prime targets for loneliness. They have not received support from other people in many cases, cultural differences may serve to isolate even more from someone who may truly want to help them. Despite our own pain and struggles, and sense that we are alone-God is always faithful to His people! When we are a beloved child of God, we are never alone!
Seek God and trust Him to help you build relationships like Naomi and Ruth. Seek a meaningful connection with Him. If you have never asked Jesus to be Lord of your life, no time like the present.
Say: Lord forgive me for all sin that separated You and me, I believe in You, and I want you to come into my life and change me forever more! Please fill me with Your love, Your Holy Spirit and lead and guide me forevermore. I know you died for me and rose again so that my life would be changed for all eternity, In Jesus’ mighty name, amen. Now as His beloved child, you will never really be alone again!
Scriptures on loneliness: Isaiah 49:16 Psalms 139:7-10