Overcoming Isolation
- Brandon Bruce
- Sep 3
- 2 min read
Updated: Sep 8
“For when we came into Macedonia, we had no rest, but we were harassed at every turn—conflicts on the outside, fears within. But God, who comforts the downcast, comforted us by the coming of Titus, and not only by his coming but also by the comfort you had given him. He told us about your longing for me, your deep sorrow, your ardent concern for me, so that my joy was greater than ever.” -2 Corinthians 7:5-7
When we’re not feeling good on the inside, we can tend to not want to be around people. When you isolate yourself because of hardship, discouragement, or brokenness, you are playing right into the enemy’s trap. When you isolate from community, you are missing much of God‘s built-in support system for your spiritual life.
Our feelings can lead us into isolation, but we need to lead our feelings and not let them lead us! Your feelings help indicate what’s going on inside, but they should not be in control. God gives you a spirit of self-discipline (2 Timothy 1:7) so you can stay in control of those feelings no matter how strong!
Many people make the decision to isolate because they just don’t feel like being around others, don't want to explain everything, and think they need to figure things out by themselves before reentry into the crowd. However, other people can add valuable encouragement, helpful advice, loving support, and a comforting presence when we are down.
Others accelerate our comebacks while isolation prolongs our set-backs.
You have a ministry of presence as well. Your presence, even if you are not feeling your best, can encourage others. There are many times when we hear someone’s trials and are reminded that we are not alone. Just you sharing what you’re going through can lift someone else who may be suffering in silence.
We are better together and we are stronger together. You need the support of God‘s Church around you and God‘s Church needs you! We are a Body, and we need every part of the Body. We also need you all the time and not just some of the time when you feel like being present with people.
Decide to step into your calling as a part of God‘s Church and show up for your ministry of presence consistently. Watch what God will do in you and through you to be a blessing to those around you!
Right on?
Read/listen to 2 Corinthians chapters 7-9
Prayer focus: talk to God about how you feel these days and ask for the courage to show up consistently with others despite how you feel
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