Loneliness.
There is so much impacted into this word. Yet the definition is quite simple. Webster's dictionary defines lonely as "Causing sad feelings that come from being apart from other people". The depth of loneliness can range from a bad day to years of torment. In fact loneliness has doubled from 20 percent in the 1980's to 40 percent.
Upon further research you can find articles with more statistics, reasons for the increase, and how to fix it. Make more friends, go out more, don't watch so much tv, facebook and social media are evil. And the list goes on. Though I find these things to be true to an extent, I can't help but say they are wrong. We live in a world that is vastly growing. Our population is ever increasing which means we are surrounded by more and more people. More activtites, more reasons to connect and share with people.
I don't personally suffer from depression but I can account numerous times of loneliness in my life. Sometimes they last a day and at times they have lasted months. Today has been one of those days. As I was catching up on my shows this morning on my day off, I was hit with it. On first reaction, it always feels like it came from nowhere. Until of course, I begin to look back on where my heart and mind have been the last few weeks. Not a ton of time in God's word, not alot of time fellowshiping with friends. More like here and there. And a whole lot of business that has lead to a thirst for more "me time".
I know there are tons of debates about being introverted and extroverted. Blogs and articles that "prove" it's healthy to be true to your own personality on what "fills" you up. I would say I'm smack dab in the middle of the two. There are times where I need to just be around people to feel more alive. And times where I want to be alone in my house doing my own thing. Neither have brought me full satisfaction. Neither have taken away my loneliness. They have brought but moments of peace and happiness. Truth be told there are also many times I run to these avenues and still find myself alone even surrounded by those that I love. It usually leads to the question of "Where do I belong?".
But when my true joy stems from the One True Living God, the times I spend with people and by myself bring joy that pushes my heart and soul towards heaven. These are the times that get me past my loneliness. The point at which I let my guard down because I put my trust in a Savior who sees me for who I am and still loves me. This love. This grace that God has given is the only way I truly can escape the loneliness of this world. Because we are surrounded by a sea of empty lies. Lies that tell us that we need that new Iphone because we will be able to connect more with the world. Lies that tell us that our happiness comes from within ourselves. Lies that tell us we don't need people in our lives who challenge our selfishness. Or take a little more to love. Lies that tell us we can give and serve people without really serving people.
We have become so infatuated with ourselves that we forget our need for a relationship with our Father. He is the sustainer of life. He is all knowing, all powerful, and just. He is faithful. He is loving. He is wise and passionate. He gives comfort in times of need. He fullfills. He satisfies. He is the fountain of truth. And He will never leave you.
So yes. When you get lonely. Maybe get off the couch, stop looking at facebook and hang out with a friend. But first pray. Recite these truths to yourself and rely on the Lord to give you joy immeasureable.
