Loneliness

The Gospel is a message of hope and encouragement. As members of the body of Christ, we are to be a community of believers: sharing, being concerned, and praying with each other. We also are to follow the example of Jesus by being humble servants (Philippians 2:5-8).

But not every believer has this level of commitment. As Paul experienced, we can find ourselves alone and abandoned. For him, it was painful when Demos loved the present world more than serving Jesus. In fact, Paul felt that “all who are in Asia turned away from [him]” (2 Timothy 1:15).

Paul had to be prepared for these moments by learning to count on God and realizing that He was with him in every situation. He was not to be defensive or vindictive but willing to forgive others, even those who had abandoned him. Paul may have been disappointed by the actions of some believers, but he learned that these could be opportunities for God to speak to him and teach him.

Make sure that you focus on God, no matter what is going on in your life. Be sensitive to His leading. Seek to develop a more intimate relationship with Him, even in moments when you might feel abandoned or disappointed. Spend time in worship and praise. Read His Word. Pray and listen for His voice. Others may fail you, but God always is faithful.