Sam Kes

In preparing for our Deeper Life Conference, one of the most overlooked questions we need to ask ourselves is, “Do I feel loved?” Now if the answer is yes, then congratulations! But if you have ever been hurt by those around you or in the past, keep reading. Prayerfully examine the roots of your loneliness/aloneness. 

The two words we are looking into are Loneliness and Aloneness. Please do not confuse these two words for the same meaning. 

Loneliness is associated with a disconnection from community

Aloneness is associated with a disconnection from oneself

You can feel both lonely and alone but never will someone truly be lonely if they are alone. 

Loneliness is formed from a disconnection of a community. The lack of connection stirs in our hearts to be known. Thus anxiety sweeps in and the fear to belong intensifies. 

Aloneness, on the other hand, is a disconnection from oneself. When your core identity is clouded with a poor self-perception or value, the degrading thoughts on oneself eventually isolates the individual from God’s truth. 

These thoughts and feelings are no stranger. In fact we can find these hardships throughout Scripture. Whatever situation you are in? In Hebrews 12:1-3, we are taught to keep our eyes on Jesus and to remember the afflictions He faced in persecution. Why? To simply put it, we are made for Him (Colossians 1:16). Church family, let us not forget that we need Jesus. God loves you (Romans 5:8). Whether you are lonely or alone right now, accept and embrace His love in these upcoming days leading to Deeper Life. 

 Reflections:

1. When was it the last time that you felt loved? What happened that made you forget this? 
2. How long have you held on to some of the hurts or lies affected by Loneliness or Aloneness? And how can you share this with your God given community? 
3. Who does God say you are?