While recently reading through the Psalms of David, I came across the verse from chapter 34 that states, “The Lord is close to those who have a broken heart, and saves such as have a contrite spirit.” While reading, I was immediately drawn to think of the numerous people who are lonely and feel isolated. Even in a world, and a time where the world is supposedly connected through technology, internet, cell phones and social media applications; there still exists a chasm that we are not relationally connected through shared life experiences.
In 2023, The Surgeon General of the U.S. released an extensive study showing this to be an epidemic in our country and poses a threat to many people’s health and well-being. This study correlated a significant rise in heart disease, stroke, dementia, and depression as a result of little to no social interaction. This report stated that “isolation increase(s) the risk for premature death by 26-29%.” The loneliness and isolation in older adults is now accounting for an estimated $6.7 billion in excess Medicare spending. It is a fascinating study, and I encourage you to delve deeper into it. The title of the study is Our Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation: The U.S. Surgeon General’s Advisory on the Healing Effects of Social Connection and Community. It can be found digitally at the Health and Human Services website (www.hhs.gov).
Loneliness is a universal human experience, arising during times of loss, feeling disconnected among others, or navigating changes in relationships. It can feel suffocating, but in these moments of solitude, it’s essential to acknowledge that God is near, providing comfort and companionship even when we feel most isolated.
The Bible offers a poignant understanding of loneliness through the life of David. In Psalm 34, he assured us that God draws near to the brokenhearted. There is comfort in knowing that even in our most isolated moments, God sees us and understands our pain. David’s own life was marked by periods of deep loneliness—running from Saul, living in caves, separated from family and friends. Yet in those solitary times, David turned his heart towards God– his loneliness forced him to rely on the Lord.
Just as loneliness touched David’s life, it touches ours as well. The world often encourages us to fill our loneliness with distractions—media, arts, entertainment, or superficial relationships—but these solutions usually leave us feeling empty. Instead of hastily trying to escape our loneliness, we can choose to press into it and seek the Lord’s embrace. This can be a time of intimacy, a moment to rediscover our worth and identity in Christ.
As we navigate through our lonely times, it is essential to remember that we are never truly alone. Jesus Himself experienced profound loneliness during His time on earth. In the Garden of Gethsemane, He asked His disciples to pray with Him, and yet they fell asleep. On the cross, Jesus cried out, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” (Matthew 27:46). In His moment of greatest need, He bore the weight of our sins, facing an ultimate loneliness so that we could be brought back into fellowship with the Father.
In our loneliness, we must remind ourselves of God’s promises. He is a God who comforts, brings healing, and draws close to those who feel abandoned and ignored. Psalm 34:18 invites us to lean into our pain, allowing God’s presence to heal our brokenness. We can pray, read His Word, or sing His praises knowing that every moment spent in His presence is a moment filled with hope and reassurance.
Let us also consider how we can bring the light of God’s love into the lives of others who might be feeling isolated. Loneliness can often feel like a dark pit, but as followers of Christ, we are called to love those around us. Simple acts of kindness, a phone call, or even offering to pray for someone can bridge the gap of loneliness.
In conclusion, while loneliness is a painful experience, we can find solace in God. As we meditate on Psalm 34:18, let’s remember that even in our isolation, we have an ever-present help in God. He is with us in our loneliness, transforming it into an opportunity for deeper communion with Him and a call to reach out to others.
If you or someone you know is suffering from loneliness or isolation, please call the NCBAM Hope Line, 9am-9pm, seven days a week to speak with a live person. Our trained staff and volunteers are ready to encourage you with a friendly voice, to pray with and for you, and to remind you that God sees you and loves you. The number is toll free, 866-578-4673.