Today I decided to talk about how to deal with loneliness because I know that today I will struggle with it. I am writing this just as much to remind myself how to deal with being lonely as much as I am writing you to help you deal with loneliness. You see, every time I officiate at a wedding, I deal with loneliness. It is part of my job, but as much as I celebrate with those that are getting married, I am also reminded of how lonely it can be not having somebody. So bear with me as I talk plainly to myself and all of you before I head out to perform a wedding.
How Do I Deal With Being Lonely?
#1. The first thing I always do is remind myself that although I may not be with someone I am not alone. The Bible clearly states that Jesus will not leave us or forsake us.
Let your conduct be without covetousness; be content with such things as you have. For He Himself has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” —Hebrews 13:5
To me this is more than just a mental assertion. This is something that can and is a reality in my life. Just as you can feel the presence of the Lord in a church service or at other times in your life, you can sense His presence in your life even in the mundane things. I always take time, especially when I know I will be faced with something that will remind me that I am alone, to pray, worship and invite His presence to be real and tangible in my life.
#2. The second thing I do is when I am feeling lonely is that I reach out to someone who I know loves me. In my case, I call my mom. I know that sounds silly and very unmasculine but I know deep down in my heart that she loves me unconditionally. It helps just to talk to someone. It reminds me that even though I am out in the middle of desolate Wyoming and living on my own with nobody else in the house, I am not really alone. She is there for me. As much as she is my mother, she fits this definition of a friend found in Proverbs.
A man who has friends must himself be friendly, But there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother. —Proverbs 18:24
#3. Finally I remind myself that loneliness is only a season in life. It is not the entirety of my life nor is it my destiny.
For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope. —Jeremiah 29:11
This time of loneliness is not my hope nor is it my future. God has greater things for me than being alone. He knows that it is not good for man to be alone. He knows what it is like to be alone. Jesus even felt loneliness when He cried out on the cross asking His Father why He had forsaken Him. It was only for a season.
So when you are struggling with feeling lonely, remember it is only for a season. God has better things for you in the future. We will not always be alone. Whether He brings new friends into your life, or a new partner in life, or whether He restores old relationships, He will not leave you alone.
Take a moment to watch this video and let it minister to you right now as you are feeling alone.
Blessings to all of you and remember Jesus has not left you.
Pastor Duke
This article was first published on my website Taber’s Truths
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