Tuesday, January 26, 2021

Reflection - Health and Frailties - Struggling with Loneliness

Source (book): "Growing Old Gracefully", Following Jesus to the End, PART IV: HEALTH AND FRAILTIES, Chapter 27, "Bereavement and Loneliness", Question 2, Page 180.
By Robert M. Solomon, Bishop of the Methodist Church in Singapore from 2000 - 2012


Read Romans 8:31-39. How does this passage help one who is struggling with loneliness?
PHOTO: Read Romans 8:31-39. How does this passage help one who is struggling with loneliness?
In the face of things like the brokenness of creation, struggles with our physical bodies, ongoing battle with sin and opposition from the world we can be tempted to doubt God’s goodness and his work to secure our salvation and belonging into his family. If we find ourselves facing such a temptation we need look no further than Romans 8:31-39.

Romans 8:31-39 teaches us that there are many things that are real and practical enemies to our faith. These enemies include both the physical and spiritual world. Yet notice that ultimately no one can stand in God’s way. Who is against us? We have security because of God’s generous love in how he gave the ultimate gift, his son. Who shall bring a charge against the elect? We do not need to fear a charge being brought against those in Christ because God has justified (made righteous) those in Jesus. So those charges that come from our sin nature and the enemy that ring in our ear are actually hollow accusations. Who is to condemn? At this very moment, follower of Jesus, Christ is raised and at the right hand of God interceding for us. Who shall separate us from the love of God? Suffering in this world is not proof that God has abandoned us, suffering is to be expected and God is with his people in it. God has rendered each and every enemy powerless and he is steadfast in his love for his people.

Paul finally shares with us his personal confidence in all these things saying in Romans 8:38 “For I am sure”. He is absolutely confident that our union with Christ and security is never in question. Death nor life, angels nor rules, things present nor things to come, nor powers, height nor depth… and just in case we think he forgot something Paul adds in “nothing else in all creation”. Nothing and no one can separate the people of God from his steadfast lost in Christ Jesus.

Main idea: If we are tempted to look to our circumstances and situations as a measure of God’s love then we will struggle to feel assurance. What God offers us instead is to look to the work he has done in Christ. The believers' confidence can be found in the generous, steadfast and overwhelming love of God in Christ Jesus.

Scripture is supernatural and can help anyone who feels lonely, including lonely singles, lonely married couples and those who are experiencing loneliness and depression. As the foundation, God’s Word reminds us that, despite our loneliness telling us that we are alone, as His beloved children, we are never alone. The following verse is a good place to start:

- For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord (Romans 8:38-39).


What would a ministry to the lonely look like?
Even the apostle Paul felt lonely - when he was immobilised in prision and cut off from his regular social ties. He complained that "no one came to my support, but everyone deserted me" (2 Timothy 4:16; see also 2 Timothy 1:15). Some of his friends had been lured by the distractions of the world or deterred by the danger of associating with him (since he was a political prisoner); others had gone on to do the Lord's work. "Only Luke is with me" wrote Paul (2 Timothy 4:11). He therefore urged Timothy to visit him quickly and to bring along Mark (2 Timothy 4:9, 11).

We may also remember the Old Testament prophet Elijah who, in a moment of exhaustion, loneliness and depression, lamented to God, "I am the only one left" (1 King 19:14). But God revealed to him that he had reserved seven thousand brave and faithful people like Elijah, and that he was not alone (1 King 19:18).

What can a bereaved or lonely person do to find relief and help? He can consider several suggestions:
  • Be honest with yourself about your thoughts and feelings.
  • Share with someone close what you are going through. If you find it difficult to open up to another person, try expressing your feelings by writing them down in a journal.
  • Find a group you can be part of. For the bereaved, getting together with others who have also experienced bereavement can be immensely helpful.
  • If you are struggling with loneliness, try connecting with others. Some local churches organise day activities for seniors.
  • Volunteer your services and get involved with those in need. Reaching out to others with compassion is itself a healing, strengthening, and deeply satisfying experience.
  • Give yourself time; healing often takes time.
  • Above all, turn to God for company and strength.

Ultimately, God is with us. We may be alone, but we need not ever be lonely, because if we are walking with Christ, He is always with us and will never leave us nor forsake us (Hebrews 13:5).


Is there someone you can reach out with God's love?
  • Those who are in wheelchairs and need help to go up a steep slope.
  • Those who get caught in a heavy rainfall and does not have shelter.
  • Those who need a listening ear while exercising along the Park Connector Network (PCN).
  • Those who are unable to walk normally while alone the PCN.
  • Those who need companionship while walking alone the PCN.
  • Those who are out alone the PCN with lamp-posts' light off, during pre-dawn.
  • Those who need to be vaccinated but have fear in Covid-19 vaccination.
Picture posted by Consuelo-Parra on 30 January 2018
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhOewqggAQaEqsLpp7-9rQzGs_783EcaBiLXLGwgx9nj3qsjACAoG1N5pSKgjgLzTa_10XfED63J0Gfyt40MsKCQKr70_rsmsX2NC2cdVWtFNBh2WoRmuljRnRzsZiC3_vKD9l_VN_RFg/s706/dc1mstv-a72ce1e4-3ba3-42ed-81c0-8bc2e17847b8_1.jpg
https://images-wixmp-ed30a86b8c4ca887773594c2.wixmp.com/f/7e851bc9-e6bd-4763-ad66-34daae39a16e/dc1mstv-a72ce1e4-3ba3-42ed-81c0-8bc2e17847b8.jpg?token=eyJ0eXAiOiJKV1QiLCJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJzdWIiOiJ1cm46YXBwOiIsImlzcyI6InVybjphcHA6Iiwib2JqIjpbW3sicGF0aCI6IlwvZlwvN2U4NTFiYzktZTZiZC00NzYzLWFkNjYtMzRkYWFlMzlhMTZlXC9kYzFtc3R2LWE3MmNlMWU0LTNiYTMtNDJlZC04MWMwLThiYzJlMTc4NDdiOC5qcGcifV1dLCJhdWQiOlsidXJuOnNlcnZpY2U6ZmlsZS5kb3dubG9hZCJdfQ.bLkFJomtyA_WjfkHHo7qrZMEaO4p7r64KCfQCNf2MZM
https://www.deviantart.com/consuelo-parra/art/Essences-728337523


Depending on the situation, signs of an underlying state of loneliness may include the following:
  • Feeling bored and/or excessively tired
  • Feeling helpless and threatened
  • Not sleeping well
  • Being physically inactive (including not exercising)

Depending on the situation, signs of an underlying state of loneliness may include feeling bored and/or excessively tired, feeling helpless and threatened, and not sleeping well.
PHOTO: Depending on the situation, signs of an underlying state of loneliness may include feeling bored and/or excessively tired, feeling helpless and threatened, and not sleeping well.
Picture posted by Akshata Nayak on 12 March 2017
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL3cEnQpjdziJNRll5Bb7TMuG6uUmaDt7T1zEyupyhrxjHWtMA1-lX_LzdlGS0IrxJRanKoWfuqWMrt3ErrHvrs-d_v6qoOCDBwWqBkNn5dFpVccEBsySc28M0SQlLddACumhkdvqt-Zc/s786/da7145589061a5422daa3abbe1404f54.jpg
https://i.pinimg.com/564x/da/71/45/da7145589061a5422daa3abbe1404f54.jpg
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/607000856012105045/


While it’s normal to feel lonely from time to time, ongoing loneliness triggers stress that is so potent it affects everyday life. A person may feel tired and lethargic, and less mentally alert. He or she may experience stomach and digestive problems, and other incidents of sickness and disease. Recent research found loneliness was associated with a risk of early death that is equivalent to smoking 15 cigarettes a day and that it was more lethal than obesity. In contrast, people who reported having greater social connections were associated with a 50% reduced risk of early death. [3]


While it’s normal to feel lonely from time to time, ongoing loneliness triggers stress that is so potent it affects everyday life.
PHOTO: While it’s normal to feel lonely from time to time, ongoing loneliness triggers stress that is so potent it affects everyday life. A person may feel tired and lethargic, and less mentally alert. He or she may experience stomach and digestive problems, and other incidents of sickness and disease.
Picture saved by Vapid Babble to Art
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlEKy5zje1HNtVxY7ysXkTSy5dv109CeJqjPddbHd6uTQcsRX4c84Ief5wd52b2A-sWaeS3hZpeUx08IFoiVHhH6AERHze5gCS3JXIT8zkl0tb4Oz6XVm_879Le0QLEoboVr_ZM0DDFf0/s775/be27a0f76232fd6908a1dfc0412db7c2.jpg
https://i.pinimg.com/564x/be/27/a0/be27a0f76232fd6908a1dfc0412db7c2.jpg
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/549298485777260907/


Read Romans 8:31-39. How does this passage help one who is struggling with loneliness? What would a ministry to the lonely look like? Is there someone you can reach out with God's love?

Read Romans 8:31-39. How does this passage help one who is struggling with loneliness? [2]
In the face of things like the brokenness of creation, struggles with our physical bodies, ongoing battle with sin and opposition from the world we can be tempted to doubt God’s goodness and his work to secure our salvation and belonging into his family. If we find ourselves facing such a temptation we need look no further than Romans 8:31-39.


In the face of things like the brokenness of creation, struggles with our physical bodies, ongoing battle with sin and opposition from the world we can be tempted to doubt God’s goodness and his work to secure our salvation and belonging into his family.
PHOTO: In the face of things like the brokenness of creation, struggles with our physical bodies, ongoing battle with sin and opposition from the world we can be tempted to doubt God’s goodness and his work to secure our salvation and belonging into his family. If we find ourselves facing such a temptation we need look no further than Romans 8:31-39.
Picture posted by Kateřina Hájková on 03 March 2020
https://www.prozeny.cz/clanek/priciny-vysokeho-krevniho-tlaku-62487


Romans 8:31-39 teaches us that there are many things that are real and practical enemies to our faith. These enemies include both the physical and spiritual world. Yet notice that ultimately no one can stand in God’s way. Who is against us? We have security because of God’s generous love in how he gave the ultimate gift, his son. Who shall bring a charge against the elect? We do not need to fear a charge being brought against those in Christ because God has justified (made righteous) those in Jesus. So those charges that come from our sin nature and the enemy that ring in our ear are actually hollow accusations. Who is to condemn? At this very moment, follower of Jesus, Christ is raised and at the right hand of God interceding for us. Who shall separate us from the love of God? Suffering in this world is not proof that God has abandoned us, suffering is to be expected and God is with his people in it. God has rendered each and every enemy powerless and he is steadfast in his love for his people.


Romans 8:31-39 teaches us that there are many things that are real and practical enemies to our faith.
PHOTO: Romans 8:31-39 teaches us that there are many things that are real and practical enemies to our faith. These enemies include both the physical and spiritual world. Ultimately no one can stand in God’s way. We have security because of God’s generous love in how he gave the ultimate gift, his son. We do not need to fear a charge being brought against those in Christ because God has justified (made righteous) those in Jesus. So those charges that come from our sin nature and the enemy that ring in our ear are actually hollow accusations. At this very moment, follower of Jesus, Christ is raised and at the right hand of God interceding for us. Suffering in this world is not proof that God has abandoned us, suffering is to be expected and God is with his people in it. God has rendered each and every enemy powerless and he is steadfast in his love for his people.
Picture posted by 123RF
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoBcZX8T8viyiBCVvGi3MlgQbZQHpXioVwh2XE_MO5jJwuBf6_jfUC2cez523t_QLwtp3-1ek9Nuh8MtJSSEDG24elvgxPvd_ln5H3v6w0jnAMD2zXvW4H7BDDzzxK2R3Pnmmv3WmalzQ/s1300/30208141_11.png
https://previews.123rf.com/images/bialasiewicz/bialasiewicz1407/bialasiewicz140701198/30208141-우울한-여자-스윙에-앉아-그녀의-머리는-낮은-들고.jpg
https://kr.123rf.com/photo_30208141_우울한-여자-스윙에-앉아-그녀의-머리는-낮은-들고.html


Paul finally shares with us his personal confidence in all these things saying in Romans 8:38 “For I am sure”. He is absolutely confident that our union with Christ and security is never in question. Death nor life, angels nor rules, things present nor things to come, nor powers, height nor depth… and just in case we think he forgot something Paul adds in “nothing else in all creation”. Nothing and no one can separate the people of God from his steadfast lost in Christ Jesus.


Paul finally shares with us his personal confidence in all these things saying in Romans 8:38 'For I am sure'.
PHOTO: Paul finally shares with us his personal confidence in all these things saying in Romans 8:38 “For I am sure”. He is absolutely confident that our union with Christ and security is never in question. Death nor life, angels nor rules, things present nor things to come, nor powers, height nor depth… and just in case we think he forgot something Paul adds in “nothing else in all creation”. Nothing and no one can separate the people of God from his steadfast lost in Christ Jesus.
Picture posted by Wellspring Christian Ministries
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhN6oiVL_mj9nYE54bxXEXUopyPXdpPIB5w4uft92lrMkB6edTRwsya6i726hevt5zgi-vE81XTGBiaZ_qcSisR8UYdmmgQICnsX_9I4W4RtVr3MNpImGjBlCQFVyTgdpWefdSepu1R64/s1546/Romans-8-38-39.png
https://i2.wp.com/wellspringchristianministries.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/Romans-8-38-39.png?w=1546&ssl=1
https://wellspringchristianministries.org/romans-838-39-nothing-can-separate-us-from-the-love-of-god/


Main idea: If we are tempted to look to our circumstances and situations as a measure of God’s love then we will struggle to feel assurance. What God offers us instead is to look to the work he has done in Christ. The believers' confidence can be found in the generous, steadfast and overwhelming love of God in Christ Jesus.


If we are tempted to look to our circumstances and situations as a measure of God’s love then we will struggle to feel assurance.
PHOTO: If we are tempted to look to our circumstances and situations as a measure of God’s love then we will struggle to feel assurance. What God offers us instead is to look to the work he has done in Christ. The believers' confidence can be found in the generous, steadfast and overwhelming love of God in Christ Jesus.
Picture posted by John Piper on 08 September 2002
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGx5J_EuMRy25bUBdBCnDb-UJqzHGNDu063M0HTsgdP6qpAOlSD6P_BY4xkRpIe_1a7h31h_Zd96MGvjOKpyoaeTnoky-tzcgm-ymNrgukR49JSmhckvGC1MXRDcRTTH9pA3Z2vcx34Xw/s2000/nothing-can-separate-us-from-the-love-of-christ-8wkohwqc.jpg
https://www.desiringgod.org/messages/nothing-can-separate-us-from-the-love-of-christ


Scripture is supernatural and can help anyone who feels lonely, including lonely singles, lonely married couples and those who are experiencing loneliness and depression. As the foundation, God’s Word reminds us that, despite our loneliness telling us that we are alone, as His beloved children, we are never alone. The following verse is a good place to start: [3]

- For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord (Romans 8:38-39).


Scripture is supernatural and can help anyone who feels lonely, including lonely singles, lonely married couples and those who are experiencing loneliness and depression.
PHOTO: Scripture is supernatural and can help anyone who feels lonely, including lonely singles, lonely married couples and those who are experiencing loneliness and depression. As the foundation, God’s Word reminds us that, despite our loneliness telling us that we are alone, as His beloved children, we are never alone.
Picture posted by Peter Lundell - Engaging the Supernatural
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHuXX5L9VEaaYNryyMpqhemV3StH59MgpN9opnt-74mH8Q1uRpKedPTgYNgXVNCdIB7HVTHr7TPpYFS-Gt2woOBC6n2vjYIJ-p_-pf04fU9zHFMw8EDbKdXDMsfslL4-IpU5_zT7xg33c/s640/supernatural-power-bible_si.jpg
https://www1.cbn.com/sites/default/files/styles/image_xl_640x480/public/supernatural-power-bible_si.jpg?itok=_HBkYahp
https://www1.cbn.com/engaging-the-supernatural-part-2


What would a ministry to the lonely look like? [1]
Even the apostle Paul felt lonely - when he was immobilised in prision and cut off from his regular social ties. He complained that "no one came to my support, but everyone deserted me" (2 Timothy 4:16; see also 2 Timothy 1:15). Some of his friends had been lured by the distractions of the world or deterred by the danger of associating with him (since he was a political prisoner); others had gone on to do the Lord's work. "Only Luke is with me" wrote Paul (2 Timothy 4:11). He therefore urged Timothy to visit him quickly and to bring along Mark (2 Timothy 4:9, 11).


Even the apostle Paul felt lonely
PHOTO: Even the apostle Paul felt lonely - when he was immobilised in prision and cut off from his regular social ties. He complained that "no one came to my support, but everyone deserted me" (2 Timothy 4:16; see also 2 Timothy 1:15). Some of his friends had been lured by the distractions of the world or deterred by the danger of associating with him (since he was a political prisoner); others had gone on to do the Lord's work. "Only Luke is with me" wrote Paul (2 Timothy 4:11). He therefore urged Timothy to visit him quickly and to bring along Mark (2 Timothy 4:9, 11). 
Picture posted by Steve Thomason
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNn-S6EEiftn4a5p0V0t7vrvx63gHMbUW24fndawxXM5Trgqp61dfnMJEuxv8OrUNq2DlaxH-vy44uwO2xBsmWW2WGSEKTlGRZ1-x9yyCIasluKl4WS72HjPF6n-whdbNUR5BAPi8MBjtC/s1600/2-timothy.gif
https://www.stevethomason.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/2-timothy.gif
https://www.stevethomason.net/studies/the-bible-bookshelf/pauls-letters/2-timothy/
http://veryfatoldman.blogspot.sg/2017/06/reflection-key-lessons-learned-from-2.html
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2017/07/reflection-pauls-feeling-and-temptation.html


We may also remember the Old Testament prophet Elijah who, in a moment of exhaustion, loneliness and depression, lamented to God, "I am the only one left" (1 King 19:14). But God revealed to him that he had reserved seven thousand brave and faithful people like Elijah, and that he was not alone (1 King 19:18).


The Old Testament prophet Elijah who, in a moment of exhaustion, loneliness and depression, lamented to God, 'I am the only one left' (1 King 19:14).
PHOTO: The Old Testament prophet Elijah who, in a moment of exhaustion, loneliness and depression, lamented to God, "I am the only one left" (1 King 19:14). But God revealed to him that he had reserved seven thousand brave and faithful people like Elijah, and that he was not alone (1 King 19:18).
Picture posted by Pastor Timothy Ogundele-Jesu on 23 May 2019
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe4KOr2wcfI1_p7nNowVUHz6-VumSftY_1vnGhua4C7oPGiUWCMS11cIb_PMr0sTYwDosvvOByHKuuqpOJl658UaY0aE_HyqVZDuqIASEeZmdFBnlrmJTl4XgCTB-EZo3wRbAVhesHT8I/s600/Elijahs-Ministry-Changed-At-Mount-Horeb.jpg
http://www.timogundelejesu.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Elijahs-Ministry-Changed-At-Mount-Horeb.jpg
http://www.timogundelejesu.com/elijahs-ministry-changed-at-mount-horeb-sinai/


What can a bereaved or lonely person do to find relief and help? He can consider several suggestions:
  • Be honest with yourself about your thoughts and feelings.
  • Share with someone close what you are going through. If you find it difficult to open up to another person, try expressing your feelings by writing them down in a journal.
  • Find a group you can be part of. For the bereaved, getting together with others who have also experienced bereavement can be immensely helpful.
  • If you are struggling with loneliness, try connecting with others. Some local churches organise day activities for seniors.
  • Volunteer your services and get involved with those in need. Reaching out to others with compassion is itself a healing, strengthening, and deeply satisfying experience.
  • Give yourself time; healing often takes time.
  • Above all, turn to God for company and strength.

What can a bereaved or lonely person do to find relief and help?
PHOTO: What can a bereaved or lonely person do to find relief and help?
  • Be honest with yourself about your thoughts and feelings.
  • Share with someone close what you are going through. If you find it difficult to open up to another person, try expressing your feelings by writing them down in a journal.
  • Find a group you can be part of. For the bereaved, getting together with others who have also experienced bereavement can be immensely helpful.
  • If you are struggling with loneliness, try connecting with others. Some local churches organise day activities for seniors.
  • Volunteer your services and get involved with those in need. Reaching out to others with compassion is itself a healing, strengthening, and deeply satisfying experience.
  • Give yourself time; healing often takes time.
  • Above all, turn to God for company and strength.
Picture posted by Hanna G Sigurðardóttir
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjEjb68JcFR7v3NEWUvWzGtYWmX6zjsi04AwxH7HuFQfMuMeFJG-LJZGegzRv3Ql-9sLobFAIPhejCEqpasBykOAKLjugDsuqgUsY8ID0LASaGfAyjX5AhkcC87CITLu8ZZW5AMWi5MWM/s2000/fr_20150611_017289.jpg
https://www.ruv.is/sites/default/files/fr_20150611_017289.jpg
https://www.ruv.is/frett/kenning-um-ad-einsemd-valdi-fikn


Ultimately, God is with us. We may be alone, but we need not ever be lonely, because if we are walking with Christ, He is always with us and will never leave us nor forsake us (Hebrews 13:5).


Ultimately, God is with us.
PHOTO: Ultimately, God is with us. We may be alone, but we need not ever be lonely, because if we are walking with Christ, He is always with us and will never leave us nor forsake us (Hebrews 13:5).
Picture posted by Day of Grace
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSPOyGME1MtKB1PuvLXSpsdlCv0v0Z1AbjfHmJYq_goSUwfD7JFxaRb1Hh7ZdHh55nNZYD1hAkYOXHojXpLqFiJU_nZFLI0Sz6x-xV13igRo8xs6T9u-r1SzWaLWqXVBFeoPEOJ8uJvK8/s550/small-house-353929_640.jpg
https://patriciawonders.files.wordpress.com/2014/07/small-house-353929_640.jpg
https://dayofgrace.me/2014/07/15/hebrews-135-esv/


Is there someone you can reach out with God's love?
  • Those who are in wheelchairs and need help to go up a steep slope.
  • Those who get caught in a heavy rainfall and does not have shelter.
  • Those who need a listening ear while exercising along the Park Connector Network (PCN).
  • Those who are unable to walk normally while alone the PCN.
  • Those who need companionship while walking alone the PCN.
  • Those who are out alone the PCN with lamp-posts' light off, during pre-dawn.
  • Those who need to be vaccinated but have fear in Covid-19 vaccination.

Is there someone you can reach out with God's love?
PHOTO: Is there someone you can reach out with God's love?
  • Those who need a listening ear while exercising along the Park Connector Network (PCN).
  • Those who are unable to walk normally while alone the PCN.
  • Those who need companionship while walking alone the PCN.
  • Those who are out alone the PCN with lamp-posts' light off, during pre-dawn.
Artwork by Michelle Sagara
Picture posted by powerplantcreative.com
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2d7ZyDnrJZ4q3NyXWP3Hh05KczypvKJlxY5LWgRL67VfFsSIgC4-trOVjJUekSURZsypYcKa00B-3t5ljyyyAiXy9u4A5D9al_eqWCPdPzNnzpfJm8Apc7sC3E6cjjVly8RLmkFBBCuQ/s960/TOUCHcoverart.jpg
https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/53e7ba6ee4b0f3bb3d2403f2/1408351339653-NGXRW49ODKU7TA0F6X5L/ke17ZwdGBToddI8pDm48kLqU0K3NJvb-iri4_BmMmrpZw-zPPgdn4jUwVcJE1ZvWQUxwkmyExglNqGp0IvTJZUJFbgE-7XRK3dMEBRBhUpwKqfAATTiC_wNWRGeFWfyH3W6Gh8v0FQe1hMaFFGnhXD2b393zCp6QIhEM1x11V7o/TOUCHcoverart.jpg?format=750w
http://www.powerplantcreative.com/paranormal/0n38rnjxuxo3mjw7n4xujr2vfwwouz
http://www.powerplantcreative.com/paranormal/


Is there someone you can reach out with God's love?
PHOTO: Is there someone you can reach out with God's love?
  • Those who get caught in a heavy rainfall and does not have shelter.
  • Those who need to be vaccinated but have fear in Covid-19 vaccination.
Artwork by Michelle Sagara
Picture posted by powerplantcreative.com
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Dear Lord,
Dear Lord,
PHOTO: "Dear Lord, we learn that in the face of things like the brokenness of creation, struggles with our physical bodies, ongoing battle with sin and opposition from the world we can be tempted to doubt God’s goodness and his work to secure our salvation and belonging into his family.

Romans 8:31-39 teaches us that there are many things that are real and practical enemies to our faith. These enemies include both the physical and spiritual world. We notice that ultimately no one can stand in God’s way. We have security because of God’s generous love in how he gave the ultimate gift, his son. We do not need to fear a charge being brought against those in Christ because God has justified (made righteous) those in Jesus. So those charges that come from our sin nature and the enemy that ring in our ear are actually hollow accusations.

At this very moment, follower of Jesus, Christ is raised and at the right hand of God interceding for us. Suffering in this world is not proof that God has abandoned us, suffering is to be expected and God is with his people in it. God has rendered each and every enemy powerless and he is steadfast in his love for his people.

Thank you, Lord, as we learn from Paul that our union with Christ and security is never in question. Death nor life, angels nor rules, things present nor things to come, nor powers, height nor depth… and just in case we think he forgot something Paul adds in ‘nothing else in all creation’. Nothing and no one can separate the people of God from his steadfast lost in Christ Jesus.

Lord, we learn that if we are tempted to look to our circumstances and situations as a measure of God’s love then we will struggle to feel assurance. What God offers us instead is to look to the work he has done in Christ. The believers' confidence can be found in the generous, steadfast and overwhelming love of God in Christ Jesus.

Thank you for providing us with Scripture that is supernatural and can help anyone who feels lonely, including lonely singles, lonely married couples and those who are experiencing loneliness and depression. As the foundation, God’s Word reminds us that, despite our loneliness telling us that we are alone, as His beloved children, we are never alone. The following verse confirmed this.

‘For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord’ (Romans 8:38-39).

Lord, thank you for providing a bereaved or lonely person find relief and help by the following:
  • Be honest with ourselves about our thoughts and feelings.
  • Share with someone close what we are going through. If we find it difficult to open up to another person, try expressing our feelings by writing them down in a journal.
  • Find a group we can be part of. For the bereaved, getting together with others who have also experienced bereavement can be immensely helpful.
  • If we are struggling with loneliness, try connecting with others. Some local churches organise day activities for seniors.
  • Volunteer our services and get involved with those in need. Reaching out to others with compassion is itself a healing, strengthening, and deeply satisfying experience.
  • Give ourself time; healing often takes time.
  • Above all, turn to God for company and strength.

Ultimately, God is with us. We may be alone, but we need not ever be lonely, because if we are walking with Christ, He is always with us and will never leave us nor forsake us.

We pray for your help to reach out to that someone with God’s love, especially:
  • Those who are in wheelchairs and need help to go up a steep slope.
  • Those who get caught in a heavy rainfall and does not have shelter.
  • Those who need a listening ear while exercising along the Park Connector Network (PCN).
  • Those who are unable to walk normally while alone the PCN
  • Those who need companionship while walking alone the PCN
  • Those who are out alone the PCN with lamp-posts' light off, during pre-dawn.
  • Those who need to be vaccinated but have fear in Covid-19 vaccination.

Through Lord Jesus Christ we pray. Amen!"
Photograph by Jose Mauricio Vargas Mercado uploaded on 24 July 2016
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Reflection - Health and Frailties - Struggling with Loneliness
Source (book): "Growing Old Gracefully", Following Jesus to the End, PART IV: HEALTH AND FRAILTIES, Chapter 27, "Bereavement and Loneliness", Question 2, Page 180.
By Robert M. Solomon, Bishop of the Methodist Church in Singapore from 2000 - 2012


Other Books

Also from the same author, Robert M. Solomon

"Faithful to the end", A Preacher's Exposition of 2 Timothy, @ 2014 by Robert M. Solomon

'Faithful to the end', A Preacher's Exposition of 2 Timothy, @ 2014 by Robert M. Solomon<br>
Reflection - Faithful to the end (Links)
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2017/06/reflection-faithful-to-end-links.html


"Finding rest for the soul" Responding to Jesus' Invitation in Matthew 11:28-29, © 2016 by Robert M. Solomon

Reflection - Finding rest for the soul (Links)
Reflection - Finding rest for the soul (Links)
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2018/10/reflection-finding-rest-for-soul-links.html


"God in Pursuit" Lessons from the Book of Jonah, © 2016 by Robert M. Solomon

'Reflection - God in Pursuit (Links) - PART I-III, posted on Saturday, 10 August 2019
Reflection - God in Pursuit (Links) - PART I-III, posted on Saturday, 10 August 2019
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2019/08/reflection-god-in-pursuit-links-part-i.html


"God in Pursuit" Lessons from the Book of Jonah, © 2016 by Robert M. Solomon

'Reflection - God in Pursuit (Links) - PART IV, posted on Saturday, 10 August 2019
Reflection - God in Pursuit (Links) - PART IV, posted on Saturday, 10 August 2019
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2019/08/reflection-god-in-pursuit-links-part-iv.html 


"Songs of Christmas", The Stories and Significance of 20 Well-Loved Carols, © 2018 by Robert M. Solomon

Reflection - Songs of Christmas (Links), posted on Friday, 24 April 2020
Reflection - Songs of Christmas (Links), posted on Friday, 24 April 2020
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2020/04/reflection-songs-of-christmas-links.html
 


Reference
[1] From "Growing Old Gracefully", Following Jesus to the End, Copyright © 2019 by Robert M. Solomon, ISBN 978-981-14-1836-5, PART IV: HEALTH AND FRAILTIES, Chapter 27, "Bereavement and Loneliness", Page 178-179.

[2] David Frederick, Romans 8:31-39 Study Guide “The Inseparable Love of God”, posted on 09 April 2020, https://westhills.org/romans-831-39-study-guide-the-inseparable-love-of-god/

[3] Michael Lee Stallard, What the Bible Says about Loneliness and How to Overcome It, https://www.biblestudytools.com/bible-study/topical-studies/what-the-bible-says-about-loneliness-and-how-to-overcome-it.html


Links


New International Version (NIV), Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

1 King 19:14 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+King+19%3A14&version=NIV

1 King 19:18 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+King+19%3A18&version=NIV

2 Timothy 1:15 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2+Timothy+1%3A15&version=NIV

2 Timothy 4:9, 11 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2+Timothy+4%3A9%2C+11&version=NIV

2 Timothy 4:11 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2+Timothy+4%3A11&version=NIV

2 Timothy 4:16 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2+Timothy+4%3A16&version=NIV

Hebrews 13:5 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Hebrews+13%3A5&version=NIV

Matthew 11:28-29 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+11%3A28-29&version=NIV

Romans 8:31-39 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans+8%3A31-39&version=NIV

Romans 8:38 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans+8%3A38&version=NIV


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