Philippians 2:1-4 - Listen to this message now or download as: MP3

Facing loneliness: John 14:23 and Philippians 2:1-4

Rejection is something that we all fear because it is quickly followed by the feeling of isolation and loneliness. We have various strategies to prevent rejection; being friendly, funny, helpful, always saying yes when we are asked to do something and making ourselves important to other people are just a sample. 

It’s hard for us to tell people about Jesus because we feel certain that we will immediately be rejected, isolated and lonely. But aren’t we told not to be selfish Phil 2:3-4? Haven’t we been told that God grants us not only to believe but also to suffer for Christ’s sake 1:27? The purpose of loneliness is to help us turn to God for encouragement, comfort of love, fellowship of the Spirit, affection and mercy Phil 2:2. Christ offers to make your body his home Jn 14:23 so that you need not be lonely. Christ wants to turn your life around so that you enjoy giving more than receiving. Rather than using people for company why not be company for people. Rather than seeking comfort from people why not be a comforter of people. We should want to make our Church Family a place where people are not lonely but find the comfort and love of Jesus Christ working through our lives. The Rev