Are You Lonely?

In one year the average American today probably meets as many people as the average person did in a lifetime 100 years ago. Yet, he is far lonelier. There is a big difference between being lonely and being alone, and the presence of people does not necessarily help at all.

The deadliest disease of our age is loneliness. It is a killer disease of epidemic proportions. A plague misses no one. Loneliness is no respecter of persons, age, or status. It is by no means exclusive with singles or the aged. It is not confined to those who must live alone. It sickens people in the midst of people as well as the loner. It pains the married as well as the widowed and divorced.

Many experiences cause us to suffer loneliness. Illness tends to separate us from social activities with others and makes for awful loneliness. A breakdown in communication between husband and wife or parents and children can make for terrible loneliness. The loss of a friend due to a move out of town or death makes for loneliness. Having to make decisions with no one to talk them over with makes you feel lonely.

Loneliness does all kinds of things to us. It makes us tired, weary, and depressed. Loneliness makes for all kinds of psychosomatic ills and can even deteriorate the organic cells of the body. Loneliness affects our temperament, disposition, humor, and efficiency. It plays havoc with our lives more ways than is known.

Seven Sure-Fire Ways To Beat Loneliness

	CONTACT OTHERS: Make a list of everyone you know: loved ones, friends, and acquaintances. Make it a point to contact them regularly.
	GET INVOLVED: No matter where you live or what your interests or skills may be, there are people who need your help. Show interest in their lives. It will bring joy to yours.
	DEVELOP NEW DREAMS: Dreams give hope and spark to life. Find new things to achieve. An elderly triathlon runner once said, “No one is ever alone who has a dream.”
	EAT PROPERLY: Low blood sugar or improper diet can magnify negative feelings. Check your food intake.
	REST: Recharge your body. Tired people tend to lean toward their problems and respond negatively to situations.
	COUNT RIGHT: Focus on the good things that have happened and are happening in your life.
	REMEMBER GOD: You are never really alone because God loves you, and He is as near as your prayers.

"O God, You are the one who rides on the clouds and we praise You. Your name is the Lord, and we celebrate as we worship You. From Your sacred home, You find families for those who are lonely." Psalm 68:4-5 para

Clay Road Baptist Church

9151 Clay Road @ Pinemont NW Houston 77080

(713) 462-3401 Fax (713) 462-3480 Home Page: http://www.gocrbc.org