Expert: Dr. (Rev.) Miles Bateman, USAF (retired) - 3/9/2008

Question
Hi
I'm 24 and loneliness is something that I've experienced a lot in my life. I was hoping you could give me some advice from The Bible on loneliness. Sometimes I think that is God's will for me to stay alone but how can I know if this is what He has in life for me? Honestly, I don't like to be alone, it hurts me and I feel grief to the point that recently I began feeling fear of being lonely.
Thanks in advance for your help.

Answer
Hi Rick! After reading your post I went ahead and did a biblical search for loneliness. There are over 118 references to being alone in both the New and Old testaments. I believe the most telling reference is the first, from Genesis 2:18 where God says "It is not good for the man to be alone." In this instance God was speaking long term about his most beloved creation, you.
There are several other references to other biblical figures from Moses to Jesus being called to perform tasks that they could only perform alone, generally for short periods of time (40 days in the wilderness being an example). I would tell you that if God has called you to a task, mission or calling that only you can do, it may very well be that he wants you to be alone at this time, however, I don't think that applies for the long term.
It is perfectly normal to feel loneliness at times, when you feel that way, get out and get involved. Are you a member of a church? sports team? business? class? Do you have a hobby or interests that others share? Are you a member of any online communities? What about your family? Those are all excellent avenues to meet other people who may share some of your interests.
Finally I would tell you that you are never truly alone. If you know God, he sends his Holy Spirit to act as your comforter. The 23rd Psalm says it better than I ever could, take some time and read over that scripture. Pray about it, fast and change the way you think about the time that you are alone with God. Rather than a negative time that you have come to fear, it can be a positive, constructive time that makes you a better person and makes you closer to God. Never forget that you are loved and cherished, that you are important and special, and God has given you life for a reason.
God loves you, and so do I- Keep the Faith! Miles