Weekly Magazine | The Ache of Loneliness
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Dear Friends,
Loneliness touches all of us at some point. Whether it’s the ache of an empty house, the sting of cancelled plans, or the sense of being unknown even in a crowd, our hearts long for connection. This week, we’re exploring loneliness in its many forms—emotional, social, and spiritual—and the ways God meets us in those empty spaces. Through stories of real women and biblical encouragement, we’ll discover how loneliness can be transformed into deeper intimacy with God and meaningful relationships with others.
Encouraging You in God’s Truth,
The Three in Me | Sandy Mayle
When Sandy roamed the Allegheny hills, she didn’t realize that the restlessness she felt was really a longing for God. In this deeply personal reflection, she shares how discovering the Trinity—the “Three in Me”—transformed her inner isolation into unbroken fellowship.
All the Lonely People | Gail Goolsby
What’s really going on when we say, “I’m lonely”? Gail looks at the surprising causes of loneliness, its toll on our wellbeing, and practical ways to break free by blessing others and reaching out.
Wholeness for the Lonely Heart | Katherine Perez
Katherine opens up about her lifelong struggle with loneliness and identity—and how God gently reshaped her heart, friendships, and understanding of community. Her story shows that it’s okay to feel lonely, but it’s even better to let God make us whole.
BONUS: Spiritual Loneliness | Jill Briscoe
Sometimes the deepest ache is being spiritually alone—even among the people closest to us. Drawing from Jeremiah’s life, Jill shows how spiritual loneliness can draw us into deeper commitment and a resolute faith in God.
Also:
The NIV Journal the Word® Bible allows you to creatively express yourself every day with room for notes or verse art next to your favorite verses. Each Bible features thick cream-colored paper with lightly ruled lines in the extra-wide margins, perfect to reflect on God’s Word and enhance your study.
The Three in Me
How to Find Comfort in the Trinity.
By: Sandy Mayle
Growing up in northwest Pennsylvania, I was frequently drawn to the Allegheny hills that surrounded my home, to their loamy forests and meandering creeks and stands of white pine. I often roamed them while shedding stress or puzzling out a problem or simply escaping the outside world.
But there was a problem, something I couldn’t quite nail down. For some reason I felt unable to fully take in the beauty and vitality all around me.
The brook babbled and the sweet breezes rustled leaves, but I was mute, unable to reply. Caramel-colored pine needles carpeted the ground beneath towering trees, offering sacred sanctuary, but I was numb, unable to respond.
I know now that I was imprisoned in myself, inwardly isolated, and soul-lonely. My soul craved, but I didn’t know what it wanted. My heart longed, but I didn’t know why or for whom. Now I realize that God was speaking, calling to me through His world, but I didn’t have ears to hear. He was revealing Himself through all He had created, but I couldn’t see Him. He was everywhere present and speaking, but I felt inconsolably lonely.
I don’t have to give you statistics; you know. Deep in their core, people are lonely. Perhaps you are lonely, too.
I can say now that there is an antidote to that loneliness.
