Alone?

Sometimes we find ourselves alone in our endeavors and beliefs. One need not be single, a widow, a widower, or divorced to feel unsupported. Bullying, disrespect, sickness, disabilities, intolerance to varying political, social, or religious views, PTSD from personal tragedies, peer pressure, lack of communication in relationships, difficult circumstances, and violence can leave us with a sense of isolation. Loneliness has become epidemic since the covid pandemic and the mega-use of social media. The journey ahead may appear dismal when we feel abandoned, unloved, or uncared for. But are we?

Scripture consistently points us to the reality of God’s powerful presence and the truths of His inspired Word. These are the  blessings of a faith which confidently assures that “the Shepherd and Guardian of our souls” leads to still waters and green pastures and is even present in the valley where death casts its shadow (1Peter 2:25) (Psalm 23).

The Psalmist knew that “The LORD is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth” (Psalm 145:18). He extolled God as his refuge and strength, a fortress, a strong deliverer., and a “present help in trouble.” Throughout history, God has been known as compassionate, faithful, merciful, patient, and abounding in steadfast love (Exodus 34:6) Nehemiah 9:31) (Psalm 46.1; 145:8) (Jonah 4:2) (Titus 2:11). Those attributes were definitively demonstrated through the gift, incarnation, life, sacrifice, and resurrection of Christ who touched and healed the bodies and souls of all who sought him. He raised the dead and promised resurrected eternal life to all who would come to him in belief (John 11:25). He calls to all who are weary and burdened and promises rest (Matthew 11:28). He promised to never leave or forsake us and to be with us “to the end of the age” (Deuteronomy 31:60 ( Mathew 28:20).

Throughout his life, the Apostle Paul experienced overwhelming persecution, physical challenges, and spiritual needs but found God’s grace sufficient for his trials (2 Corinthians 12:9). He understood what he told the Athenians – that God is not far from us. We are His creations made in His image, and “in Him we live and move and have our being” (Acts 17: 24-26).

The Apostle Peter, who knew that he would die for his beliefs and advancement of the Kingdom of God, was undaunted as he courageously persevered in preaching what he believed: “Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:7)

Jesus was challenged at all levels of his physical, emotional, and spiritual being. There is no hardship or temptation that he escaped. He endured them perfectly for us. (Hebrews 4:15) He understands our bruised souls and doubt filled, fearful minds and is always present -lovingly guiding along paths traveled and familiar to him. It is a matter of trusting him.

Alone, Never Alone, an old hymn written by an unknown author, conveys the truth that God is the God of comfort, peace, love and hope. You can hear it on YouTube, but the lyrics are included here:

I’ve seen the lightning flashing/And heard the thunder roll,
I’ve felt sin’s breakers dashing/which tried to conquer my soul;
I’ve heard the voice of my Savior/ He bid me still fight on:
He promised never to leave me/Never to leave me alone.

Refrain:
No, never alone/No, never alone;
He promised never to leave me/Never to leave me alone:
No, never alone/No, never alone:
He promised never to leave me/ Never to leave me alone.

The world’s fierce winds are blowing–Temptation’s sharp and keen;
I have a peace in knowing/My Savior stands between;
He stands to shield me from danger/When all my friends are gone:
He promised never to leave me/Never to leave me alone. [Refrain]

When in affliction’s valley/I tread the road of care,
My Savior helps me carry/My cross so heavy to bear;
Though all around me is darkness/And earthly joys are flown,
My Savior whispers His promise/Never to leave me alone. [Refrain]

He died on Calv’ry’s mountain/ For me they pierced His side,
For me He opened that fountain/The crimson, cleansing tide;
For me He’s waiting in glory/Upon His heavenly throne:
He promised never to leave me/Never to leave me alone. [Refrain]

Troubles? Yes. Alone? Never!