Walking, being alone, totally, is an extreme situation. It rarely happens, but there are those moments when we think we are out in the world all by ourselves. A woman trapped by an assailant. A child sitting for a major exam. Two lovers sitting in the darkness after a major disagreement. A father deciding if he should respond to the offer of a new job with a competitor. Anyone sitting in the quiet of the morning as they look through the midst, longing to feel God's presence.
I find that when I feel alone I am also looking and longing for a sense of hope and assurance. The combination often deprives one of sleep, creating an intense headache that no medication can push away. It is in these moments that one longs for companions.
I believe Solomon experienced more than his fair share of being alone, struggling to find hope. Coming back from the edge, he left a gift for you and I to ponder. “Dear friend, guard Clear Thinking and Common Sense with your life; don't for a minute lose sight of them. They'll keep your soul alive and well, they'll keep you fit and attractive.” (Proverbs 3.21,22)
I find it helpful to remember that I am never alone. I believe the gap between my belief and my emotional confidence is the result of sin and the recurrence of doubt. God loves you and I absolutely and totally. This love is because of who He is. His character and essence shape his actions and behavior. My doubts reoccur because I find it very difficult to accept that anyone could be this way. Although I experience unconditional acceptance, complete mercy, and total forgiveness, I still turn away. God keeps coming, not willing that you or I really want to live alone.
God knows how difficult life is, so he gives us companions along the way. Some come in the form of flesh and blood, others come through the Spirit; wisdom, clear thinking, and common sense are just the beginning!
God loves you; He never leaves you.
