Imagine a child without a sin nature or selfish motivation. Before you claim to know that perfect tyke, consider what an oddball that likely would make him or her. I mean, peers and siblings might have a hard time relating to the kid. Now, imagine a teen equally pure hearted and acutely sensitive to sin and evil. Likely, feeling misunderstood, disconnected, and lonely would be a regular experience. As an exceptionally unique person, it makes sense to me that Jesus may have been well acquainted with loneliness even as a child.
Scripture testifies that as an adult Jesus experienced times of incredible loneliness. “He was hated and rejected; his life was filled with sorrow and terrible suffering.” (Isaiah 53:3 CEV)
For instance, Jesus spent 40 days isolated in the desert battling Satan’s temptations. Constantly throughout his ministry he was misunderstood and rejected. He was lonely and disappointed with the company of close friends in Gethsemane. And of course, his solitary experience at Calvary as well as being forsaken by his Father were devasting moments of extreme loneliness in Jesus’ life. (Matthew 27:46)
Because Jesus Christ was “born in the likeness of men” and is God, he can both empathize and guide you out of loneliness. (Philippians 2:7)
“For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin.” (Hebrews 4:15)
Charles Spurgeon made this beautiful point, "Christ leads me through no darker rooms than he went through before."
It is not God's desire for you to feel lonely. Withdrawing, isolating, and loneliness are symptoms of disunity, which is not God's will for a member of the body of Christ (see Romans 12:4, Ephesians 2:19).
He has formed you to be in relationship with Himself and connected to others.
Because of Jesus Christ’s redemption, all forms of suffering, including loneliness, are passing away for those who trust in him. Confidently “draw near to the throne of grace, that [you] may receive mercy and find grace to help” when you feel lonely. (Hebrews 4:16) Pray that God will reveal your next step in strengthening relationships. God has people for you and people who need you!
"The friendship of the LORD is for those who fear him, and he makes known to them his covenant." (Psalm 25:14)
Your Savior understands and has promised his companionship. His Presence is right there with you and His Spirit indwells you. May Lord Jesus continue to reveal his friendship to you as you befriend him.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, please turn to me and be gracious when I am lonely and afflicted. Lord, I believe You are near to me and save the crushed in spirit. I ask for guidance out of loneliness. Please reveal Your Presence to me. It is in Christ Jesus’ name that I pray. Amen.