| Good morning everyone, Our theme for this month: “Take care of yourself” Our Bible verse for today: “God has said, ‘Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.’” Hebrews 13:5 (NIV) Our thought for today: “He is always with you” Loneliness is a problem of epidemic proportions in America, and it is getting worse. Study after study reveals that across age groups, and despite living in a society that is highly connected in a digital manner, more and more people feel lonely and isolated. In terms of mental and emotional health, loneliness has significant negative impacts. This morning, I want to continue our thinking from yesterday regarding the importance of reminding ourselves about how God feels about us. God doesn’t want you to feel lonely or alone. God loves you so much that there is never a time when He is not with you. That is the promise Jesus gave us in Hebrews 13:5. He will never abandon you. He will never leave you. There will never be a time when He is not with you. Therefore, you are never really alone – even if you think you are and even if you feel lonely. Jesus is always there. But what if it doesn’t feel like He is there? What if you believe the truth of Hebrews 13:5 but you still feel lonely? Genuine heartfelt prayer should be our first go-to response to that. Talk to God and tell Him how lonely you feel. Ask Him to give you an increased awareness of His presence with you. Then go to the Bible. Do a search for all the verses and passages that assure us of God’s presence and comfort (you can even Google it and instantly have a list of over one hundred verses.) Spend some time slowly reading them and thinking about them. But another important way God makes His presence known to us, and thereby provides relief from the sense of loneliness, is through other Christians. The Holy Spirit works in us and through us to manifest the presence of God to each other. In short, we are a blessing, comfort, and encouragement to each other. So, when you are struggling with a sense of loneliness, reach out to other Christians. Go to church. Attend fellowship events. Participate is group ministry activities. The more time you spend with other Christians who are committed disciples of Jesus, the more you will experience the presence of Jesus through them. Then, you will have both their company and a renewed awareness of the presence of Jesus as well. Jesus is always with you, and He will make His presence known to you. Seek Him. He will be there for you. God bless, Pastor Jim (If you like what you’re reading in these daily devotionals, and if you would like more content from Oak Hill Baptist Church, join us on Sundays at 10:00, in-person if you are nearby or, if you are geographically distant or if you just can’t make it, online at www.YouTube.com/@oakhillbaptistcrossville |
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