The Loneliness Epidemic

THIS WEEK’S BOLD STEP DEVOTION

“Pardon me, my lord,” Gideon replied, “but how can I save Israel? My clan is the weakest in Manasseh, and I am the least in my family. “

Judges 6:15

I heard recently that the two loneliest places in America are nursing homes and college campuses. Researchers have declared loneliness to be a national epidemic that can have devastating consequences such as increased risk of heart disease, stroke, dementia, and premature death. There’s even a correlation between loneliness and suicide.

A lot of people blame this epidemic on the COVID-19 pandemic shutdowns, which prevented these two people groups mentioned above from making connections with friends and family, but the issue dates well before this. The reality is a person can be surrounded by hundreds of other people but not feel known for who they are. Being around others doesn’t mean you’re not lonely.

In the book of Judges, we’re introduced to a man named Gideon, who God calls on to save the people of Israel from the Midianites. Feeling insecure and insignificant, Gideon doubted his abilities, but his encounter with God changes the trajectory of not only his life, but the nation of Israel. God revealed Himself to Gideon that day and He can do the same for you. Never underestimate the access you have to the presence of God.

As a Christian, your body is the dwelling place of God where the Holy Spirit resides. Remember, the Lord is in you. There are times and seasons that you may feel lonely, but you’re never truly alone. In those times, recall that the Lord is with you. Wherever you go in this world, you bring the presence of God through the Holy Spirit. We play a significant role in bringing this epidemic to an end. Together, we can!

Listen to the sermon series: Identity Matters

Part 1Part 2

Ministry Update from Mark

Arise and shine, your light has arrived! The glory of the LORD shines upon you! —Isaiah 60:1

Calling all Latino men to join me and hundreds of other men in the Chicago area and surrounding cities on Saturday, April 20th, 2024 for a one-day conference called Levántate right here on the campus of the Moody Bible Institute! I believe God is calling men to rise up and walk boldly towards God’s purpose for them, their families, work, service and relationships in their communities. If you’re ready to ‘”arise and shine” for the sake of the Gospel, go to www.moodyconferences.com today!