Loneliness can be a pervasive and deeply felt emotion, impacting individuals from all walks of life. It’s a feeling that can creep in during times of solitude, but paradoxically, it can also be present even in a crowded room. This article explores the nature of loneliness, particularly within the context of demanding professions and offers a pathway to combatting these feelings.
I’ve become acutely aware of the impact of loneliness in my own life. For example, being married to a police officer with an irregular schedule can be isolating. Witnessing other families enjoying typical milestones like parties, weddings, holidays, and vacations can amplify these feelings. The absence of a partner during these events, or the constant need to function as a single parent, can lead to a longing for a more conventional family life.
Loneliness is defined as the state of being without company, unfrequented by others, or feeling sad due to being alone. It’s more than just being physically isolated; it’s an emotional state that can trigger feelings of depression, sadness, and separation from society. Giving in to these feelings can lead to a dangerous cycle of isolation, making one vulnerable to negative thoughts, fear, pain, and rejection.
This is why unity is so important. We need to unite with one another to fight the enemy and combat loneliness. In studying loneliness, one constant remains: Jesus. As Joshua 1:9 reminds us, “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” With Jesus in our hearts, we are never truly alone, regardless of how lonely we may feel.
Even Jesus experienced loneliness. His closest friends, the disciples, abandoned him during his most difficult hours. One betrayed him, and another denied knowing him three times. He understands what it means to be alone. But we are promised that once we are His, we are never alone, even in the hardest times, even when everyone else seems to have turned their backs.
To fight back against loneliness, remember Isaiah 41:10: “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
It’s disheartening to see policies that discourage friendships within certain professions, like law enforcement. While concerns about maintaining professional boundaries are valid, such policies can inadvertently drive individuals into isolation from those who understand their unique challenges – the very people they need and who may need them.
God created us for community. While some may be content in solitude, it’s not God’s intention for us to completely isolate ourselves. Whether within a church or among colleagues, sharing our lives with others who understand our battles is crucial. These individuals can lift us up when we fall and point us to the One who promises to never leave us.
Of course, relationships with those outside our immediate circle are also important. They bring balance and offer a different perspective. Joining a church can provide a sense of family and support, especially when biological family is far away. These relationships can be a source of encouragement, love, and practical assistance during difficult times.
It all begins with prayer – asking God to bring the right people into our lives, people who may need us and who will be a positive influence. God can open doors for us to build bonds with others who understand our experiences and guide us through challenges. He can even create opportunities for us to positively impact the lives of others.
Unity is essential. We need each other. If you find yourself alone, ask God to reveal someone with whom you can develop a healthy relationship. Let people in! Ask Him to guide you to a church. And if you aren’t alone, look for someone you can reach out to, someone you can be a friend to and offer support. Be the one who makes a difference in this lonely world.
“Let us hold tightly without wavering to the hope we affirm, for God can be trusted to keep his promise. Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near.” (Hebrews 10:20-25 NLT)
[Photo courtesy Kits Photography]