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Constant Connection


Connection.

Connection is something every one of us craves in some capacity.  Some of us surround ourselves with large groups and many different people, some of us prefer only a tight circle.  But regardless of our personality types or preferences, it is human nature to crave feeling known, chosen, sought after, and deeply connected.

There is nothing sweeter than a conversation, hug, or kind note from someone that makes you feel seen and understood.  Some phases of life this comes easily- you feel like you are thriving socially, you have found "your people", and you trust that whatever you go through, you have people around you through it all.

Some stages of life aren't exactly like this.  Some come with dark periods of loneliness. This can look a lot of different ways.  Maybe you're in a new city and truly don't know anyone around you.  Maybe you've experienced a death or loss of the person that knew you best.  Maybe you feel that those around you do see you, but actively don't choose you.

No matter where your season of loneliness is coming from, it's hard.  Really, really hard.

I could tell you "you're never alone, God is always with you!" and you would probably roll your eyes and quit reading.

So I'm not going to tell you that- I'm going to use God's Word itself to tell you- but stick with me here :)

Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you. (Deuteronomy 31:6) 

You have probably heard this verse before, but let's look at the context.  Moses is telling the Israelites that he is no longer able to lead them.  Moses did incredible things rescuing the Israelites from Egypt.  This group of people probably had a great deal of trust in Moses.  Not only did these people rely on him for their safely and guidance, but many in this group most likely had a close personal relationship with Moses as well.  Not only were they facing the unknown of entering Canaan, but a big source of safety and guidance was taken away.  This verse was a promise that through all the unknown and changes, God was going to be a constant, just as He had always been.

While your story looks different than the Israelites, loneliness typically stems from loss of safety, love, and entering a time of unknown, just as they were.

I'm sure their life didn't always feel easy, just as yours may not right now.  Through whatever season of darkness that you are facing, God welcomes you to drop all the weight and heaviness that you are carrying and fall into Him- to just be held.

Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand. (Isaiah 41:10)

God isn't telling you that you will always be surrounded by a big group of friends, have a perfect relationship, and feel seen at all times.  Instead, He is telling you that He is holding you in His hand- the same hand that He used to create the entire world.  The same hand that He used and is using to fight countless battles.  The same hand that was pierced by nails as Jesus gave His life for you.  

So cry out to Him.  Weep for your loss and your pain.  But through your sadness, let Him hold you with those hands.

When you've let yourself be held for awhile and feel like you can take a breath, remember that love that isn't going away.  With that idea of perfect love, look at the people around you through the eyes of Jesus.  Find the friend that needs a hug, the child that needs a laugh, or the hard person in your life that needs a prayer and forgiveness.

This isn't to say to ignore your pain- it's to say that when you find and accept the joy God is offering you, look around for the person that needs to be reminded of that joy.

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope. (Romans 15:13)

If you have 3 extra minutes, I highly encourage you to listen to Just Be Held by Casting Crowns.



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