In 2023 the U.S. Surgeon General stated that Loneliness and Isolation are new Epidemics. “The lack of social connection poses a significant risk for individual health and longevity, that it can increase the risk for premature death as much as smoking up to 15 cigarettes a day.” Loneliness and lack of social connection are associated with greater risks of heart disease and stroke, anxiety, depression, and dementia, and greater susceptibility to viruses. Boys and girls, termed as Z generation, have experienced an explosive growth of friendships in social media, but a declining number of close and intimate friends. Hyper-connected generation, but disoriented, disheartened, and depressed.
Research: The research by the American Bible Society indicates that this Z generation, who were engaged in studying the Bible and involved in the local believers’ community did not experience loneliness. That is indeed the good news. Those who read and mediate the Scripture are called Blessed. (Psalms 1:1-3) The disciples of the Lord could live free of this epidemic of loneliness and isolation.
Never alone: The Lord has promised to never leave His children alone: rejected, abandoned, and forsaken. (Deuteronomy 31:8) He neither sleeps nor slumbers. (Psalms 121:4) Believers are filled with the Holy Spirit, as they are His Temple. (I Corinthians 6:19-20) God’s presence goes with His people. (Exodus 33:14) Even when other humans: friends, parents, relatives, siblings, colleagues, neighbors, and fellow travelers are not with believers, God is with them. Hence, there is no loneliness but fellowship with the Lord.
Authentic Community: Apart from the dynamic relationship with the Lord, there is fellowship of disciples. Christian fellowship is based on love that is self-giving and sacrificial. Hence, no believer is left alone. Paul exhorts believers to share, care, and distribute their burdens among themselves. (Galatians 6:2) This community is unique and special as they exhibit the Fruit of the Spirit in their relationship with one another. That means the community is filled with love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. (Galatians 5:22-23)
Do I experience God’s presence which cures me of loneliness and isolation?