A Woman of Significance: Finding Meaning in Times of Loneliness Sampl

Thriving in Seasons of Solitary Living

“After He had sent the crowds away, He went up on the mountain by Himself to pray; and when it was evening, He was there alone.”

—Matthew 14:23 (NASB)

At times, Jesus sent the crowds away for His own benefit, and it seems reasonable to me that He might do exactly the same thing from time to time in the lives of His children.

To learn from the example of Jesus concerning loneliness in the life of a believer, we must observe what He did when He, too, was all alone. It seems to me that Jesus was in the habit of proactively being alone so that He could spend time in prayer. I believe that we should imitate everything Jesus chose to do during His time on earth, and if it was beneficial for Him to choose to be alone in order to pray, it will be beneficial for us to do the same.

Do you find yourself in an interval of life when you are often alone? Then let me encourage you to use those uninterrupted hours to pray to the Father. This time of seemingly arid living can be turned into a thriving garden of the Lord’s presence if you will only choose to pray.

Often, during such periods, instead of praying, we prefer to binge-watch Netflix, read the latest romance novel, talk endlessly on the phone, or complain on social media. What if God has wisely appointed you to a season of solitary living so that you can grow closer to Him? What if God has sent the crowd away from your life so that you are able to experience breakthroughs and miracles in prayer? What if you will never experience the true love of the Father unless you actually spend time with Him?

Now, when you choose to pray, not only will you bask in the loving arms of the One who created you, but you will also move heaven and earth! What better way to spend your time than to partner with God to make a difference in the world while on your knees? Days and even years of solo moments are never wasted when we choose to pray.

We often mistakenly identify a season of loneliness as a time of insignificance rather than as an opportunity to wield the greatest significance of our entire lives. There is a divine assignment with your name on it that loneliness is not able to erase. While you are feeling alone, you can either alienate yourself or you can fulfill the plan of God for your life.

Practical Application:

Today, would you write me an email at carol@carolmcleodministries.com and let me know how I can pray for you in your journey to exchange your loneliness for joy, peace, and meaningful living? I look forward to hearing from you!