The Bible’s Hope for the Lonely
Seasons of loneliness can be some of the most difficult times of life. Maybe you’re in that place right now and you want to know what to do when you feel alone. Everyone has been in a place of loneliness some time in their lives and most will experience loneliness in the future. Some of the Bible’s most godly men were lonely. Job, Isaiah, and especially David’s experiences of loneliness are recorded in the Bible for us to see and learn from.
God’s Promises and Character
So what is the Bible’s hope for lonely Christians? First, remember that if you’re a child of God, you are never alone. As His child, you can find comfort in His promises to you and His character of faithfulness to others. God promises to never leave or abandon us in Hebrews 13:5, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” What an encouraging promise that although we may feel alone, we are never actually alone!
God also tells Joshua and the people of Israel the same thing in Deut. 31:6. “Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the Lord your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you.” God communicates His faithfulness again in Isaiah 41:10 as He says, “fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
As Jonah sat alone on the hill above Ninavah he recounts God’s character. He says, “for I knew that you are a gracious God and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love, and relenting from disaster” Jonah 4:2b. Among other wonderful characteristics, God’s nature is that of steadfast love.
God’s Design in the Body
Although God must be the ultimate solution to our loneliness, sometimes God provides something uncomfortable, like loneliness, to move us to do what He wants. He wants His children to have fellowship with other believers. And He has given us the church as a place to find that fellowship that we long for. If you’re looking for a good church to find fellowship, here are some places to start.
Here are links where you can find a church in your area:
tms.edu/find-a-church
9marks.org/church-search
God’s Design in Service
Another helpful solution to loneliness is service. Being isolated and alone is not part of God’s design for the Christian life. Service to the Body of Christ, as one of the parts of the body of Christ, is what God desires. It is not only obedience, but it is also a great way to find fellowship and purpose.
1 Peter 4:10-11 “As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace: whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—so that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.”