Friday, August 9, 2024
If you’re an introvert, you might be vehemently disagreeing with the title at the moment, but keep reading….
While it's true that there are definitely times when people make us want to pull our hair out, we were not created to do life alone. We see God address this when he originally created Adam in the garden.
Genesis 2:18
Then the Lord God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper who is just right for him.”
In the same way, it is not good for us to be alone. Recently, loneliness was deemed a public health crisis because of the negative impact it has on our physical and emotional well-being. Physically, loneliness impacts our risk for heart disease, diabetes, infectious disease, and cognitive decline. It also contributes to anxiety and depression.
Loneliness steals our peace and unfortunately these days people feel more alone than ever with statistics indicating 30% of people feel lonely at least one time per week and as many as 10% of people experiencing loneliness on a daily basis.
This doesn’t mean we need dozens of friends or a packed social calendar (which could actually diminish peace), but we do benefit from quality friendships – people who will walk alongside us in good times and bad. Rich relationships help carry us through the challenging times, provide a sounding board during difficult decisions, and surround us when we celebrate and praise God during times of joy.
Ecclesiastes 4:9-10
9 Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. 10 If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble.
So how do we cultivate a quality community?
Seek friends who share faith in the Gospel. They will be able to remind you of God’s truth, encourage and exhort you.
Pursue your passions and bring others along. What do you love to do or who do you feel called to serve? There is quite possibly already a Group or serving opportunity available. If not, explore starting one. This will provide common ground that makes an excellent foundation for meaningful friendships.
Be purposeful—new friends rarely just happen. Even if you have a friendly acquaintance with someone, intentionally take time to deepen the connection through regular conversation.
Friendships are a gift from God and go a long way toward bringing a sense of peace and joy to our lives.