Whether you are a new mom, an experienced grandma, or a single working woman, loneliness can be a struggle. The
feeling of isolation can creep into our lives in any season. It is important to renew our minds in ways that remind
us God is always there, despite what our feelings may tell us. Drawing close to God will help us to experience His
presence when we feel alone.
Sometimes, isolation breeds more isolation. We can become depressed and lethargic, and our motivation to get out or
do anything decreases. Going out of doors can help immensely in a lonely season. Whether you are sitting on a porch
or a patio or simply taking a neighborhood walk, being outside can lift your spirits. Numerous studies point to the
physical and emotional benefits of sunshine exposure, but there are spiritual benefits as well. God’s creation
speaks to who God is and to His many promises. Sunlight through tree leaves, wind rustling the grass, the scent of
blooming flowers, the sound of songbirds, and the feel of grass beneath our feet all speak to our Maker’s love,
power, kindness, and provision.
You can extend these outdoor times into hikes or visits to a lake or beach. If you have little ones, pop them into a
stroller or baby carrier. You may even find a friend who wants to join you. Smile at people you pass. Listen to
music, an encouraging podcast, or scripture while you walk. Read a book on faith while sitting on the front steps.
Close your eyes and pray. Be present with God and all that He has made.
Isaiah 40:26 tells
us, “Lift up your eyes on high and see: who created these? He who brings out their host by number, calling them all
by name; by the greatness of his might and because he is strong in power, not one is missing.” This reminder of God
knowing the stars can help us to reflect on how known we are.
Elisabeth Elliot, who lost her husband while mothering a 10-month-old in the jungles of South America, often talks
of the gift that all the missionary work she had to do was while she was grieving. Busyness kept her from wallowing.
Thinking of others kept her from focusing on herself. Quoting her mother, she often said, “Do the next thing.”
Serving others can help to keep our minds from dwelling on our difficulties, especially if we serve those who are
struggling or less fortunate than us. A bonus is that service often brings us into contact with other people and
provides opportunities for connection.
Ask your church what needs they may have. Give time to a food pantry or pregnancy counseling center. Help a neighbor
with their yard, watch a friend’s kids, bake for someone, or write cards and messages to the sick.
Philippians 2:4 speaks to
this when it tells us, “Let each of you look not only to his interests but also to the interests of others.”
Focusing on others leads us to forget ourselves and, thus, our loneliness. Serving as Jesus did and loving the
people He loves will bind us closer to God’s heart and bring us into His presence.
It was another dreary day. The “June gloom” fog had been well settled for weeks now. As I drove my children to the
grocery store, my heart felt like a lead within me. What was the point of all this? Life on repeat. The same thing
day after day, just to wake up and do it all over again! Where was the purpose? The dark, lonely thoughts threatened
to overwhelm me. Thankfully, a question and answer from my children’s catechism book came to my mind.
“What is the chief end of man? To glorify God and enjoy Him forever.”
So, that was my purpose. Could I glorify Him while grocery shopping? How do I prepare the meal? How do I do those
same repetitive and unseen tasks? Yes, I could. Suddenly, I could breathe again. The gray skies remained, but my
heart did not feel grey.
Knowing theology and truth can help us to defeat the lies that Satan wants to throw at us. Satan does not want
families to succeed, and he knows all the weak points of mothers who are drowning in diapers and laundry. We need to
do as Ephesians 6:16 suggests, “In all circumstances,
take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one” (ESV). In order to
combat lies, we must know the truth. When we feel alone, for example, scripture reminds us that we are not. The
truth is that God is with us always.
Listen to podcasts on theology, read
books on apologetics, or use a
catechism book
to review the many truths of scripture. Put on your mother’s armor and be prepared to fight.
There are many seasons of life when we may find ourselves physically isolated from others, but that is not the end
of the story. We have a God who sees us and goes with us. Therefore, we need never feel alone, even when we are
alone. Seek God in all places and stages, and He will be found.