THE LIGHT 98.5 Vanderhoof

Bill and Vicki Rose offer hope for troubled couples as they recount the sever...

“It can be an affliction more harrowing than homelessness, hunger or disease,” wrote Maggie Fergusson in The Economist’s 1843 magazine. Her subject? Loneliness. Fergusson chronicled the increasing rates of loneliness, irrespective of one’s social or economic status, using heart-wrenching examples of what it feels like to be lonely.

The hurt of feeling alone is not new to our day. Indeed, the pain of isolation echoes off the pages of the ancient book of Ecclesiastes. Often attributed to King Solomon, the book captures the sorrow of those who seem to lack any meaningful relationships (4:7–8). The speaker lamented that it is possible to acquire significant wealth, and yet experience no value from it, because there is no one to share it with.

But the speaker also recognized the beauty of companionship, writing that friends help you accomplish more than you could achieve on your own (v. 9); companions help in times of need (v. 10); partners bring comfort (v. 11); and friends can provide protection in difficult situations (v. 12).

Loneliness is a significant struggle, because God created us to offer, and receive, the benefits of friendship and community. If you’re feeling alone, pray that God would help you form meaningful connections with others. In the meantime, find encouragement in the reality that the believer is never truly alone, because Christ’s Spirit is always with us (Matthew 28:20).

To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/110/29 3658 Gigi Williams (Disability, Bullying, Death of Spouse) Gigi Williams was born without a left hand and forearm. She struggled throughout her life to overcome her disability regardless of bullying, hardship and personal loss. Her story is one of overcoming discrimination and finding the courage to live above her circumstances. When she found the true source of courage and acceptance, she used her handicap to help others along the way.