By Alison Feinauer
Lately, I’ve felt a bit lonely even though most days I never get to be “alone.” Sure, my life if full of busyness, people, activities and a never ending to do list. But I’ve found that when it comes down to it, I feel alone like I’m in this by myself.
One thing I’ve observed lately, is that when I don’t initiate texts, no one is texting me. My phone sits there, with no little red circles of notifications. Why do I have to be the one to reach out? Are any of my friends thinking about me or wondering how I’m doing? I guess not. I guess I have to do the work if I want communication and connection.
It feels sad, empty, frustrating, and even hurtful.
What are these thoughts? They are pity thoughts. They are planted straight in my head (from the enemy) to devour and destroy me. If I give them power, they will steal my joy and my hope. And soon enough, I’m exactly where the enemy wants me.
But I say NO MORE. I know the truth. I know that my friends love me, and I have people in my life that deeply care for me. Maybe they are being told the same lies I am, and I need to break the silence and reach out. Maybe this is how I’m gifted, and God wants me to be the friend that reaches out and lifts up.
Do you feel this way at times?
I encourage you to recognize it and to reach out to someone. Ask God to give you someone who may need to be encouraged and feel known. Then let them know you are thinking about them and care for them. This will turn your day and theirs around.
We are wired for connection. After we first connect with our Father, let’s connect with each other. There’s healing power, freedom, and love that we all get to experience when we have each other.
Here’s a few truths about friendship from the Bible:
Some friendships don’t last for long, but there is one loving friend who is joined to your heart closer than any other (Proverbs 18:24 TPT)!
For the greatest love of all is a love that sacrifices all. And this great love is demonstrated when a person sacrifices his life for his friends (John 15:13 TPT).
As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another (Proverbs 27:17 NIV).
A dear friend will love you no matter what, and a family sticks together through all kinds of trouble (Proverbs 17:17 TPT).
