"I have said these things to you in figures of speech. The hour is coming when I will no longer speak to you in figures, but will tell you plainly of the Father. On that day you will ask in my name. I do not say to you that I will ask the Father on your behalf; for the Father himself loves you, because you have loved me and have believed that I came from God. I came from the Father and have come into the world; again, I am leaving the world and am going to the Father."

His disciples said, "Yes, now you are speaking plainly, not in any figure of speech! Now we know that you know all things, and do not need to have anyone question you; by this we believe that you came from God." Jesus answered them, "Do you now believe? The hour is coming, indeed it has come, when you will be scattered, each one to his home, and you will leave me alone. Yet I am not alone because the Father is with me. I have said this to you, so that in me you may have peace. In the world you face persecution. But take courage; I have conquered the world!"

John 16:25-33

Loneliness has been termed the most desolate word in the English language. It does not respect age, race, economic status, or intelligence. God made us for intimacy and companionship with others. Even before sin entered the world, He declared that it is not good for man to be alone. That is why many people feel so empty inside.

Jesus knew loneliness too. He surely must have felt it when His disciples deserted Him. The Father’s presence more than compensated for this. Today, we can lessen our feelings of loneliness by reaching out to others. But even more important, we must reach out to the LORD. He is always with us, and He wants us to fellowship with Him throughout the day.

Those who know Jesus are never alone.

Our Daily Bread – August 24, 2004