Alone, Yet Not Alone

While it may sound self-explanatory, loneliness is a complicated term. Physically, we may feel nauseated in the pit of our stomachs. Psychologically, we often feel isolated and disconnected. Our mental faculties store deep yearnings…to be wanted, loved, and known for who we really are. Even though we desire close relationships, many times, fear rushes in. Therefore, during a breakthrough of being understood, we often shut down. Hold on though. The upside is that God knows us completely. In fact, He’s the only One who counts each hair on our heads (Matthew 10:30). On top of that, we’re called the ‘Sought Out Ones’ because He tirelessly pursues us (Isaiah 62:12).

From the get-go, God indicated, ‘it’s not good for man to be alone’ (Genesis 2:18). For our consolation, we discover godly men in the Bible who had issues with aloneness. Take the Prophet Elijah, for example. Depressed, he cries out to the Lord, “Lord, they have killed Your prophets…and I alone am left, and they seek my life?” God gives Elijah the heads-up. Saying, ‘listen son, I’ve reserved 7,000 more like you!’ (Romans 11:3-4) Hey, God’s not stingy. He’s got plenty of preachers, leaders, and teachers to go around. Plus the bench-warming second string!

In similar fashion, we almost hear the tremor in Paul’s voice when he wrote Timothy from a cold dungeon “…for Demas has forsaken me…at my first defense no one stood with me, but all forsook me” (2 Timothy 4:10-16 NKJV). Nevertheless, the next verse saves the day “But the Lord stood with me and strengthened me.” Translation: But God.

To lift the disciple’s pain somewhat, Jesus prepared them for His darkest hour “…you will all be dispersed and scattered, every man to his own home, leaving Me alone. Yet I am not alone, because the Father is with Me” (John 16:32 “Amp). Time and time again, Jesus’ warm and tender demeanor consoled His followers. Anytime is a good time for Hebrews 13:5. It soaks our hearts thoroughly, and teaches a vital truth about Emmanuel (God with us) “Since God assured us, I’ll never let you down, never walk off and leave you” (Message Bible). He is with and for us. Always has been. Always will be. All. The. Time. Take that Charlie Brown.