Day 18 – Read Proverbs 18
The Best Way to Battle Loneliness
If nobody ever plans on being alone, why do people consistently say loneliness is one of their biggest concerns?
When I offer pastoral care for people, I tell them the enemy’s playbook is very limited—but he’s decent at the plays he knows how to run. One of his favorite strategies is isolation. He loves luring people off by themselves.
The Problem with Isolation
Consider this: Social media is anything but social. It makes us feel like we’re talking to people. But psychologically speaking, online contact doesn’t register the same as in-person contact. Even people who claim to be introverts still need to be around people, even if it’s just one other person.
Re-read verse one. There’s a tendency toward isolation when we’re walking in sin or battling with our mental, emotional, or spiritual health. Depression (verse 14), anger (verse 6), and shame (verse 3) all isolate us.
The name of the Lord is a strong fortress; the godly run to Him and are safe. – Proverbs 18:10 NLT
The enemy wants it this way. He wants us to think we have nowhere to go. But look at what’s written in verse 10. There’s an answer to isolation.
If you ever feel the need to retreat, God’s presence is where you can run.
Wisdom says we’re better off when we team up with people who genuinely want what’s best for us, not those who drag us down. Verse 24 teaches us that having a bunch of people around isn’t the answer. Instead, we need to seek out healthy, God-honoring relationships.
The Importance of Good Friendships
Real friends are easy to rally when times get tough, but flaky friends are nowhere to be found.
Solid friendships come from intentional community-building, and that’s how the church serves one another. When times get tough, the Church gets her chance to shine! Meal trains get started, prayer warriors are activated, and we seek to meet each other’s needs as Christ met ours on the cross.
Daily Doses of Wisdom’s Treasures
Let’s not “lash out at common sense,” but instead find our refuge and strength in God and His people. No one can “do church” alone. Say “no” to isolation.
Dig Deeper
1. If you’re not active with a church family, make that decision to get connected today: Churchfinder.com
2. Read Ecclesiastes 4:12. Who are your other two “strands”? How can you support each other this week?
