Counsels on Self-Identity

Counsel #9 — Never Alone

Picture: Counsel #9 — Never Alone CI 167.1

The highs and lows of life can also bring seasons of loneliness. Maybe you’ve felt like no one truly “gets” you, and you’ve wondered if something’s wrong with you. CI 167.2

Perhaps in your culture not having a “crew” to hang with, or a “friend circle” to entrust all your secrets to, automatically puts you in the “lame” category. That can be a very lonely place to exist. But it’s important to remember that human approval can be fleeting, and most people go through similar experiences — so, you are not alone. CI 167.3

Counterintuitively, loneliness, while painful, can become a sacred space. Flip the script on loneliness; allow it to drive you into deeper intimacy with God — seeking His face through Scripture, devotion, and consistent prayer — filling that vacant, empty space in your soul with the One Who can make you whole. God knows we need companionship; even Jesus desired connection in His loneliest moments. When we lean on God for comfort, joy, and companionship, we become less shaken by who walks in or out of our lives.^[183] CI 167.4

If loneliness becomes more than a temporary feeling, and you find yourself living in a state of depression without any friend-support, reach out for professional help, perhaps to a teacher, a pastor, or a counselor. CI 167.5

“One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.” Proverbs 18:24 NIV CI 167.6

“Your only safety and happiness are in making Christ your constant counselor.” Ellen White in Our High Calling , p. 64 CI 167.7

Reflect: Could your loneliness be an invitation to deeper friendship with God? CI 167.8