Christian, you are not alone



A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. John 13:34

We all feel alone. Sometimes even in the midst of people, even family, we can feel so alone.  We may have secrets that we are ashamed of.  We may just feel like we are different from anyone else and no one understands us.  It is a very painful place to be.

Then there are people who tell us that Jesus is always with us, which is true and we know it, but that can sound like a platitude and just doesn't really help at the time.  Others say "this will pass"  ...true but that doesn't make us feel any better right then, does it?

How precious to me are your thoughts, O God! How vast is the sum of them! If I would count them, they are more than the sand. I awake, and I am still with you.Psalms 139:17,18


Christians are often the worst at saying these things or not even noticing that someone is feeling alone. All Christians also have negative, stressful things going on in their lives that sometimes make them less observant of others.  Many times we feel that we are the only ones and we don't open ourselves up to others.

 “So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets. Matt. 7:12


Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Matt. 11:28

If we don't open up about our own issues, chances are, those around us won't either.  Who wants to share their alone-ness with someone who seems like they have it all together?

The heart knows its own bitterness, and no stranger shares its joy. Proverbs 14:10

The ways that we as Christians can find out if someone is feeling alone and help them to overcome that feeling are simple.
  •      Pay attention when you are in a group and watch for those who are not participating
  •      Share your own feelings of insecurity, worry, stress or whatever so that they feel comfortable opening up.

These involve coming out of ourselves and out of our own self-focused attitudes.  It is difficult and sometimes painful.  Sometimes it will make you cry, but you will also find that sharing and hearing others share makes your burdens lighter.  I'm not saying share on Facebook.  Share in person, connect eye to eye.  Be a friend but not a 'know it all'.  Love others as you love yourself.

Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.  Philippians 2:3,4

 Check out Casting Crown's song "Oh my Soul"




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