Loneliness is nothing more than a lie.
And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying,
“Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them,
and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God.” Revelation 21:3 (NIV)
Loneliness is a terrible burden.
It’s a secret that no one ever wants to admit. Lately, God has been allowing me to walk through my own season of loneliness. You see, I lost my best friend 9 days ago when my grandmother passed away. For the past week, God has been wrecking my heart.
Although I don’t fully understand His purpose, I have learned a lot about myself during this process. For example, I have learned I am very talented at painting on a fake smile so that I can pretend to be strong. I have learned I have a difficult time sharing my heart and being honest with others because I am scared to let anyone know how I’m really doing. And, finally, my greatest discovery yet, I have learned that loneliness is nothing more than a lie.
"Loneliness is nothing more than a lie."
Throughout scripture, we find many examples and symbols of God’s constant presence. In the book of Revelation, we are reminded countless times that God’s dwelling place is with His people. That is the very reason the angel commanded Mary to name Jesus “Emmanuel.” His name literally means “God with us.”
This past week, as I have felt loneliness creeping in, I have had to focus more intently to listen for the voice of God. He is always quick to remind my heart, “Tori, you are never alone because I am walking right beside you. You don’t have to pretend to have it all together, because I am the one who holds all things together. It’s ok to fall apart because I am right beside you, waiting to put the pieces back in place.”
Today, let’s embrace transparency. Write down the areas of your life where you are experiencing loneliness: school, practice, work, or home. Surrender it to Him. Leave your luggage of loneliness at His feet and walk in freedom today.
Father,
Teach my heart to be aware of your constant presence. I don’t want to believe the lie of loneliness anymore. I want to hear Your voice. Today, I am surrendering my heart to you because I know that You are Emmanuel. I know that You are with me.
