Devotionals

Conquering Loneliness

by John Custer
12/21/20
Free to Share
Author requests article critique

  Message Writer
  Hire Writer

Tweet

Holidays are the worst time for loneliness.

I’ve been lonely.  Everybody has….and it’s not fun!  Sometimes I have felt most alone when surrounded by many people.  That’s normal.  At large gatherings, it’s helpful to focus on connecting with just one or two people.  Perhaps it will develop into a friendship.

There are various causes for being alone: loss of someone close, moving to a new area, loss of a job, rejection, sickness, change of church, and many more.  Don’t feel it’s just you.  Even Godly missionaries have struggled in this area too. 

Many people have  drawn closer to the Lord when they felt alone.  Jesus said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.”  What a consolation!  The song “Sweet Hour of Prayer” speaks of the closeness and comfort that is derived from prayer.

There are other activities also that can minimize the pain.

For instance, try to be a friend to others in the same situation as yourself.  One of the most proven ways to fight loneliness is to help others.  As you reach out to others, you will realize that many are struggling with the same thing that you struggle with.

You also might try doing something that you’ve never done before like baking for a shut-in, or volunteering at church.

I have been impressed with the fact that former presidents, after leaving office, have often experienced loneliness.  George Bush coped by taking painting lessons.   Jimmy Carter got involved in Habitat for Humanity, helping others to get a home.

Start with a plan, then follow it and be optimistic.

I won’t say that you’ll never have those feelings again, but some of these ideas could certainly help.  

Lord, you promised to be closer than a brother.  I need that right now.  

Sharing Christ is my purpose and passion.