2. OVERCOMING LONELINESS Genesis 4:9

3. OVERCOMING LONELINESS This is the second in a five part sermon series on overcoming certain personal problems: 1.Overcoming Anxiety. 2.Overcoming Loneliness. 3.Overcoming Anger. 4.Overcoming Grief. 5.Overcoming Guilt.

4. OVERCOMING LONELINESS Introduction Loneliness is a common problem, described as “one of the most universal sources of human suffering.” Lonely people feel “left out,” unwanted, or rejected, even when they are surrounded by others. Tonight some ideas on how to overcome loneliness.

5. OVERCOMING LONELINESS Kinds EMOTIONAL the lack or loss of a psychologically intimate relationship with another person(s). SOCIAL is the feeling of aimlessness, anxiety, emptiness. EXISTENTIAL the sense of isolation which comes to the person who is separated from God and feels that life has no meaning or purpose.

6. OVERCOMING LONELINESS Solitude Solitude is a voluntary withdrawal from others. Loneliness comes when we are forced to be alone. Solitude can be refreshing, rejuvenating, and enjoyable. Loneliness is painful, draining, and unpleasant. Solitude can be started and terminated at will. Loneliness sweeps over us and hangs on in spite of our efforts.

7. OVERCOMING LONELINESS Loneliness in the Bible God said that is was not good for man to be alone (see Gen. 4:9). Loneliness is rarely discussed in the Bible, but it is seen often. Moses, Job, Nehemiah, Elijah, and Jeremiah all experienced it. David once complained that he was lonely and afflicted (Psa. 25:16). Jesus must have been lonely in Gethsemane.

8. OVERCOMING LONELINESS Causes Social Causes: 1.TECHNOLOGY… 2.MOBILITY… 3.URBANIZATION… 4.TELEVISION…

9. OVERCOMING LONELINESS Causes Developmental Causes: 1.LACK OF ATTACHMENT… 2.LACK OF ACCEPTANCE… 3.LACK OF SKILLS…

10. OVERCOMING LONELINESS Causes Psychological Causes: 1.LOW SELF-ESTEEM… 2.INABILITY TO COMMUNICATE… 3.SELF-DEFEATING ATTITUDES…

11. OVERCOMING LONELINESS Causes SITUATIONAL CAUSES… the loneliest people are usually those who are single or widowed, living alone, grieving, the elderly, and those in leadership positions. SPIRITUAL CAUSES… existential loneliness comes because of sins which we have not acknowledged or confessed, guilt for which we feel no forgiveness.

12. OVERCOMING LONELINESS Solving the Problem First, admit the problem. Second, consider the causes. Third, accept what can’t be changed. Fourth, alter what can be changed: a.DEVELOP SELF-ESTEEM. b.TAKE RISKS. c.LEARN SOCIAL SKILLS.

13. OVERCOMING LONELINESS Solving the Problem Fifth, meet the spiritual need. 1.Jesus loves us unconditionally (Rom 8:35,37). 2.Jesus has adopted us (Rom. 8:14-17). 3.Jesus is a friend who sticks closer than a brother (Prov. 18:24). 4.Jesus is our mediator (1Tim. 2:5). 5.Jesus sent the Spirit to be our intercessor (Rom. 8:26).

14. OVERCOMING LONELINESS Prevention Five things can be done to prevent loneliness: 1.BUILD THE LOCAL CHURCH. 2.COPE WITH CHANGE. 3.INSTILL ACCEPTANCE AND CONFIDENCE. 4.STRENGTHEN FAMILY TIES. 5.GROW SPIRITUALLY.

15. OVERCOMING LONELINESS Conclusion Those who suffer from a low self-esteem and the inability to create or sustain lasting relationships feel lonely. With the many problems in society there are many tired, scared, and lonely people who need a friend. You may be that one person who can help them overcome their feelings of loneliness. Jesus wants to be their Friend, and yours too.