Loneliness is defined in the dictionary as sadness resulting from isolation or lack of companion
ship. Yet, isn’t it interesting that many women feel lonely even when they are not alone? That's
because isolation often comes from something other than the absence of people.
Even though there is loneliness due to lack of family and friends, more often than not, loneliness
is a state of the heart. Loneliness occurs when a woman feels there is no one
in her life who is truly like minded with whom she as able to connect . This is
the deeper issue of the heart for a lonely person.
Because true heart connections can remain so elusive even when surrounded by
community, lonely women often seek to fill this void with vain comforts. Sadly, these
vain comforts often leave the heart feeling twice as empty and twice as isolated.
These temporary comforts can be anything from watching romantic movies and eating
chocolates or ice cream to more harmful behaviors such as drug and alcohol use or
unhealthy physical encounters. This is the nature of the human spirit: When there is a
demand (the gap of loneliness), we seek to supply it -- often with a substitute
companionship that offers temporary comfort.
The human heart, as Scripture tells us, is a tricky instrument and is not to be trusted.
In the Christian community, women must take heed because in a very similar way we
are often compelled to fill this loneliness with pious activities and all the right things to do. Yet,
binges of Christian programs and filling our plates with religious services will not reach the
recesses of loneliness. Even though some of these things are good - pursuit of these things will
often propel us even further into discouragement and isolation if we haven't dealt first with the
root cause of loneliness.
There is only one way to see this lonely state of the heart, and that is to see it as a blessing in
disguise. Loneliness may be a divine opportunity God has allowed in our lives to draw us into a
deeper level with Him. Christ is the only fountain that can fill our lonely and thirsty souls in a
way that doesn't keep it aching and unfulfilled. Clear your schedule of any vain comforts for
the moment and ask the Lord to reveal His purpose for you in this season of loneliness.
Recognizing our efforts to fill the void of loneliness with broken or empty cisterns is
the beginning process and a good starting point. He may be removing unwanted distractions on
His path for you. When we realize the futility of our efforts, we are drawn to the living well of
water. It is here at the well the lonely heart will thrive finding its truest companionship, as well
as others who are like minded.
If you are currently struggling in this area, we highly recommend the life-changing Bible Study
"Redemptive Waters." For further insight and spiritual support, take some time to explore
our suggested books specific to this struggle. Remember you are not alone. Even now many
are experiencing your heartache and also seeking encouragement. Contact us and share your
heart (anonymously if you wish) and any prayer requests.
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