Right at the start of human existence, when God was creating Adam, we read in Genesis 2:18, “The Lord God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.” Being made in the image of God, who exists as a Trinity of Father, Son and Holy Spirit, we have something within us that longs for companionship to walk with us on our journey through life.
Sadly, this is not always the case and loneliness has become somewhat of a modern ‘plague.’ “ … loneliness and poor mental health are interlinked, each can worsen the other…” (Mental Health Foundation. https://www.campaigntoendloneliness.org) It’s simple to understand how this is the case when we think of the old adage, “A problem shared is a problem halved.” If you don’t have anyone to talk to, you carry the full burden of your problems.
How sad this is, to think of people, living lonely lives, longing for someone to talk to. Are we aware of the potentially lonely people in our families, workplaces and neighbourhoods, for whom a cheery smile and a listening ear could be a lifeline?
Loneliness impacts all generations. “62% of lonely young people say that ‘feeling lonely makes them lose confidence in themselves.’”(Co-Op Foundation, A Friend in Need 2022). This is where the 1-2-1 Listening Service can be a lifeline and help young people rebuild their confidence and go on to achieve their potential. To find out more: https://niscu.org.uk/121listening/
Psalm 68:5-6a tells us that God is “A father to the fatherless, a defender of widows, … God sets the lonely in families…” Let’s determine to pray for and reflect the inclusive heart of God towards the lonely in our communities.
Jane Callow, Listening Service Manager
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