Lonely?

Have you ever been alone? I haven't in many years, being married and with three children does not allow me much alone time. But that is ok with me. Sometimes I do need a peaceful moment to think, reflect or to spend time with God. But even then I know that I am not alone.

In our world, there is a huge amount of people using social media to find and build friendships. We are living in a social age, yet many still feel alone. It is interesting that many people in our world, and maybe even you struggle with loneliness. It is quite common to feel lonely. 

In a new survey of more than 2,000 Americans conducted by the Harris Poll, showed that 72 percent of Americans experience loneliness.  

And about one-third said they felt lonely at least once a week.

“I was actually surprised that so many people felt they were alone. I thought it would be high, but not this high,” said Dr. Jennifer Caudle, from Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine. - 

Caudle said, "Too much time spent on computers and mobile devices can add up, too. Loneliness is “an invisible epidemic” masked by people’s online personas, which rarely reflect real emotions."

It is ironic, that through the very devices and online experience that we use to try to help ourselves with our loneliness and connectedness, may be a large part of the problem. 

The interesting thing is that there is one true cure for loneliness and that is being in a relationship with God. 

Deuteronomy 31:6
Be strong and of good courage, do not fear nor be afraid of them; for the Lord your God, He is the One who goes with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you.”

Matthew 28:20
 teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen

Isaiah 41:10
Fear not, for I am with you;
Be not dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you,
Yes, I will help you,
I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.’

1 Peter 5:7
casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.

Proverbs 18:24
A man who has friends must himself be friendly,
But there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.

Although there are several verses about loneliness, the Bible maintains a principle throughout in which God desires to be with His people. We will talk about this tomorrow.