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 -- or "impulse companions" -- often leave the heart feeling twice as
empty and twice as isolated.
"Impulse companionship" 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 instant
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 proper behaviors. 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 foe, 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. Prayer is the means of this divine filling. Prayer is communion with God through prayer and meditation of the Word. It is a
watering of the Spirit to the soul.
Recognizing our efforts to fill the void of loneliness with broken or empty cisterns is
the beginning of the healing process. 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 true companionship.
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. Check out other valuable resources as well also,
remember you are not alone. Even now many are experiencing your heartache and also seeking help.
Contact us and share your heart and your pain (anonymously if you wish). Don't hesitate to ask for prayer.
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