Solitary Confinement

She’s the funniest person around, always has it together, and makes success look easy. He sits and prepares, prays, counsels, preaches his heart out and loves those he leads.

But something’s wrong and they’re not telling.

Another, well, when you see her, the same stuff just pours out and she can’t seem to help it. And his behavior is so loud that it just makes others want to leave.

What might these, and more, have in common? Here’s a hint (Psa. 68:6). It’s the first part of the verse I’m talking about.

Thousands now read and share this newsletter and frankly, I’m astounded. Thank you! But I wonder. Especially this time of year.

How many read while sitting alone? Their spouse is gone, the children are grown, success or screentime isn’t filling the void. And their singleness or isolation – it isn’t 2^nd class.

 But to them, it can feel like it is. And the holidays make it worse.

Finding occasional solitude is something we all need – even Jesus did that (Mark 1:35). But living in solitary confinement isn’t and can be crushing.

So, God gives the lonely community. That’s where you come in. The lonely struggle to believe others care or notice. You just have to make yours accessible.

There’s only so much you can do. I know. But you can do something. Ask God about it. I can only do so much behind my keyboard. There’s only so much any of us can do.

But you can use this newsletter to invite conversation with others you suspect might be lonely. Share it with them and meet over coffee, lunch, or online to talk about it.

If you’re lonely, you can reach out by replying and let me know how you’re doing. Did you know we’re forming free online groups right now? Join in. You can learn more here.

God sets the solitary in families, communities, churches and fellowships. If you’re in one, you’re blessed! And here’s something you can do for others who aren’t (Luke 14:23).

You won’t have to go very far, the lonely are everywhere and in every walk of life. They might not tell you, but it won’t be hard to tell if you take a closer look and try a little harder.

They read while sitting alone. Their spouse is gone, the children are grown, and success or screentime isn’t filling the void. Their singleness or isolation it isn’t 2^nd class.

But to them, it can feel like it is. And the holidays make it worse. God want’s His house full – one lonely person and willing servant at a time. Who can you compel to come?

When we perceive one is lonely: “let us go and visit and see how they do.” Act 15:36. I’ve added some strategies and Scriptures for loneliness in the GO DEEPER section below.

TRIVIA QUESTION:

His loneliness caused him to cry? (Give it a try and send your reply. You might get a shoutout in the next newsletter. Happy digging!

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