Better TogetherSample

NOT FOREVER ALONE

In the beginning of the Bible, in the midst of Day 6 of creation, God created mankind; "God formed the man of dust from the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living creature" (Genesis 2:7).

One thing that becomes obvious as we read through the story of creation, is that God is pleased with what He has formed and declares it as good. However as we continue, we read that for the very first time, God saw something that was not good – the 'aloneness' of man.God never intended for man to be alone.

In a recent study from the Harvard, Making Caring Common Project, they researched the effect of loneliness on mankind and how the recent global pandemic has deepened the sense of loneliness in people. The report shows that 36% of all Americans, including 61% of young adults and 51% of mothers with young children, feel “serious loneliness.”

This report backs up God's exclamation; "it is not good for man to be alone" (Genesis 2:18). The consequences of loneliness are staggering. The report points to physical, emotional, and social issues, including early mortality, anxiety, and heart disease.

In a summarising statement, the report states;

"We need to return to an idea that was central to our founding and is at the heart of many great religious traditions: We have commitments to ourselves, but we also have vital commitments to each other, including to those who are vulnerable."

Whilst Adam and Eve became married, becoming one flesh, God's heart for man is exemplified through their relationship. In Genesis 2:18, God saw that it wasn't good for man to be alone, which is why He then created a helper for Adam – to begin community, and end Adam's aloneness.

God has designed humanity to live in relationships. I'm sure you can agree, that when hardships come along in life, it is beneficial to have people alongside you as your helpers; whether that be a spouse, a friend, a pastor – people who will support you, assist you, encourage you, and help you navigate the different seasons of life.

As Christians, we can't simply go through life focussing on our own circumstances, hardships, enjoyments – ourselves, just as the quote above says; "we also have a vital commitment to each other". God's Word commands us to love one another, to be each other's helper, and to do this life together.In fact, the defining factor for how others know we are Christians is expressed in John 13:5; "By this, all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another."

DAY ONE ACTION POINT - Reach out to a friend or mentor that you would like to invest in more & have an open conversation with them about how you can both invest in the relationship.

PRAYER - Thank you Father, that you do not desire me to live this life alone. Thank you that you have placed people in my life as my helper and Lord, I pray that I would also live my life to serve and help others. Help me to love people in the way that You love them; that by loving You with all my heart, I would have a heart like Yours. Today, I pray for peace and strength that comes from knowing You. Holy Spirit, guide me when I'm making decisions, and give me the patience to endure hardships in my life. In Jesus' name, Amen.