You don't have to be alone

"For he has not despised or abhorred the affliction of the afflicted, and he has not hidden his face from him, but has heard, when he cried to him."

Psalm 22:24

A common symptom of depression is feeling alone. There is a difference between being alone and feeling lonely. The first is that moment you spend with yourself to decompress. The second, is that feeling that there is nothing out there in the world for you, and you have to do this all on your own. People can be alone and not feel lonely. And people can be in crowds and feel alone. Being aware of how loneliness impacts you is part of the self-awareness process. As well as, learning to manage this and seek out appropriate comfort. What social support is for one person, is overwhelming chaos to another. Each individual is different, is unique, and is moving forward.

So... Depression can feel lonely sometimes. It can feel like no one else is going through this or no one will understand. God reminds you... that He is with you.

While in the moment it can feel lonely, and that is okay. God reminds you that you are not alone in any walk of your path. He is right there searching for you, walking beside you, holding you, and taking your hands. His arms are outreached for you. Recall the footprints in the sand story; during the hardest of times there was only one set of footprints in the sand, because God carried you through those times. As He will carry you through these times as well.

Scripture:

Isaiah 41:10

So do not fear for I am with you, do not be dismayed for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

Reflection:

What keeps you from turning to God when you feel lonely?

How might turning to God change the way you experience loneliness?

What do you turn to instead of God?

Who do you turn to instead of God?

What strengths may God be providing you in this time of loneliness? How is He working in your life?

Prayer:

Lord, as I sit in my times of loneliness and fears You remind me that I am not alone, when You are with me. Hold me now, tomorrow and forever-- Amen.