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LONELINESS
Read Mark 4:30-34.
Visit those who may be lonely. Jesus used this
parable to explain that although Christianity had very small beginnings, it
would grow into a worldwide community of believers. When you feel alone in
your stand for Christ, realize that God is building a worldwide kingdom.
Others also feel alone, even though they are surrounded by people. Jesus
has faithful followers in every part of the world, and your faith, no
matter how small, can join with that of others to accomplish great things
and comfort the lonely.
Read Luke 10:38-42.
Hospitality should flow out of wholehearted devotion
to God. Mary and Martha both loved Jesus. On this occasion they were both
serving him. But Martha thought Mary’s style of serving was inferior to
hers. She didn’t realize that in her desire to serve, she was actually
neglecting her guest. Are you so busy doing things for Jesus that you’re
not spending any time with him? Don’t let your service become self-serving.
Read John 16:1-16 (key verse 7).
In his last moments with his disciples,
Jesus (1) warned them about further persecution, (2) told them where, when,
and why he was going, and (3) assured them that they would not be left
alone, but that the Spirit would come. Jesus knew what lay ahead, and he
did not want the disciples’ faith shaken or destroyed. God wants you to
know you are not alone yet many feel that they are. You have the Holy
Spirit to comfort you, teach you truth, and help you reach out to others
who lack that assurance.
Read Romans 12:9-21 (key verse 13).
Christian hospitality differs from
social entertaining. Hospitality focuses on the guests. Their needs—whether
for a place to stay, nourishing food, a listening ear, or acceptance—are
the primary concern. Hospitality can happen around a dinner table. Don’t
hesitate to offer hospitality just because you are too tired, too busy, or
not wealthy enough to entertain.
Read 3 John 1-14 (key verse 5).
Caring for the lonely can be a cure for
loneliness. In the church’s early days, travelling prophets, evangelists,
and teachers were helped on their way by people like Gaius, who housed and
fed them. Hospitality is a lost art in many churches today. We would do
well to invite more people for meals—fellow church members, young people,
travelling missionaries, those in need, visitors, the lonely. This is an
active and much-appreciated way to show your love. In fact, it is probably
more important today. Because of our individualistic, self-centered
society, there are many lonely people who wonder if anyone cares whether
they live or die. If you find such a lonely person, show him or her that
you care!
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