What is isolation? Isolation is more than just being alone; it’s a state of complete separation from others, a feeling of solitude that can either be positive or negative.

Positive isolation, as we can see in the life of our Lord Jesus Christ, involves moments of seclusion for prayer and fasting. In the Gospel of Mark 1:35, it is written, “In the morning, while it was still very dark, he got up and went out to a deserted place, and there he prayed.” Likewise, in Luke 5:16, we learn that “Jesus Himself would often slip away to the wilderness and pray – in seclusion.” Matthew 14:23 tells us, “After He had sent them away, He went up on the mountain by Himself to pray.”

Negative isolation, however, can lead to foolishness, as Proverbs 18:1 wisely states, “A man who isolates himself seeks his desire; He rages against all wise judgment.” This separation from others can lead to a pursuit of selfish desires, and a rebellion against sound judgment and wisdom. Negative isolation leads to pursuing selfish desires and the result is destruction (sin – suicide).

What causes this isolation, you may wonder? Life’s challenges can often push us towards isolation, making us feel like we no longer fit in with others. When you hear stories that make you feel unfit, the temptation to withdraw and be alone can be strong. It’s crucial to recognize this tactic of the enemy, for just as a lion isolates a buffalo from its herd before attacking, the devil seeks to isolate us from others or our support groups before destroying us (physically or spiritually).

In our church assemblies, we must have support groups that are ready to be attentive to meet other people’s needs. Our church groups should be ready and willing to help those who are hurting, suffering, or facing challenges. Let us not merely say, “I will pray for you,” but instead, let our groups take active steps to assist where necessary. Galatians 6:2 says, “Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” We need to be practical. James says, “If a brother or a sister is naked and lacks daily food, and one of you says to them, ‘Go in peace, keep warm and eat your full,’ and yet you do not supply their bodily needs, what is the good of that? Faith by itself, if it has no works, is dead.”

Instead of going into isolation, share your difficult experiences with others or a group. In doing so, you will discover that others have faced and overcome similar challenges, or you may find companions who are in the same boat. This sharing is where healing begins. As you open up, you’ll receive guidance on overcoming difficulties, discover resources to aid you, and experience the power of collective prayer and spiritual support.

So, my dear brethren in Christ, I urge you not to isolate yourself when facing life’s trials, temptations, and challenges. Whether you are dealing with HIV/AIDS, cancer, chronic sickness or disability, or stress or depression; remember that you are not alone. Do not listen to the voice telling you that you are not loved. Do not listen to that voice telling you to go into isolation and be alone. Listening to such voices is what Solomon is calling folly in Proverbs 18. Instead, share your burdens with others, for in unity, we find strength, healing, and the unwavering support of our faith community. Let our groups be healing homes for those who are hurting.

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