Weekly Magazine | Is Loneliness a Sign I’m Doing Something Wrong?
Your weekly magazine is here—real stories, real faith, real encouragement. Just for you!
Dear Friends,
Loneliness has a way of whispering lies we rarely say out loud. It tells us we’re doing something wrong, that everyone else has figured out connection while we’re falling behind, or that our faith must be lacking if we still feel alone.
But what if loneliness isn’t a failure of faith—or even a failure at all?
This week’s issue invites us to look at loneliness through a more compassionate, Christ-centered lens. Scripture shows us that even deeply faithful people walked through seasons of isolation. Loneliness is not a verdict on your worth; it is often a signal that calls us toward deeper community, greater vulnerability, and closer dependence on Jesus.
Together, these articles explore how God meets us in our loneliness, how spiritual friendships form over time, and why taking small, courageous steps toward connection matters more than getting it “right.” You are not alone in asking these questions—and you are not doing something wrong.
You belong here.
Encouraging you in God’s truth,
Combating Loneliness by Stepping into Community | Margaret Kemp
A move, a crisis, and a hesitant step into a church choir reveal how belonging is built through courage, patience, and presence. This article explores how community forms when we show up, stay open, and allow God to meet us through others.
The Grace of Spiritual Friendship | Jane Rubietta
A deeply reflective look at spiritual friendships, and why soul-level connections are essential for faith and survival. This article reframes loneliness as sacred ground where God forms relationships that sustain us through hardship.
We Are Never Alone | Penny Noyes
Even surrounded by people, grief can leave us feeling profoundly alone. This tender reflection reminds us that Jesus is present in our loneliness, understands our losses, and carries us when others cannot.
Also:
DaySpring Hope and Encouragement Bible
The world’s voices can drown out the truth of who we are in Christ, and it’s easy to forget God’s promises. The DaySpring Hope & Encouragement Bible was created to help you remember your true identity. It’s a reminder that you belong to God, that he loves you deeply, and that he has incredible plans for your life. This Bible highlights 12 indisputable truths about who you are in Christ—truths that stand firm, regardless of how you feel or what you may believe. You’ll also enjoy wide margins for journaling, 52 DaySpring devotionals, and over 250 inspirational reflective readings to deepen your faith. Explore the incredible calling God has lovingly planned for you with the DaySpring Hope & Encouragement Bible.
Combating Loneliness by Stepping into Community
Discovering God’s Care Through Sharing Life With Others.
By Margaret Kemp
Have you ever felt the weight of loneliness as you moved to a new location or walked into a new phase of life?
After spending most of my life nestled in a blanket of familiarity, circumstances thrust me into a new city. Just as I settled into my new home, a Goliath-sized crisis threatened to destroy me.
Friends and family were too far away to wrap their arms around me. And though I hated venturing out on my own, I knew I couldn’t face my challenges alone.
I reconnected with a family friend named Nila and began attending church with her. When Nila found out I liked to sing, she insisted I join the choir. Though I’m not exceptionally talented, I scraped up enough courage to make my way to Wednesday night practice.
I climbed the narrow steps that led to the choir room and tentatively poked my head in the door. Beyond the piano was a sea of unfamiliar faces. I had one last chance to sneak away.
What was I thinking, entering this group?
What if I don’t fit in?
But the directors welcomed me and showed me where to sit. Other members provided me with a folder of music and greeted me with friendly conversation.
As the weeks went by, I got acquainted with the other members. I felt safe enough to open my heart and relate my story. Older women shared stories of God’s faithfulness in their trials. They fed me hope and nurtured me with generous amounts of love.
Over the years, choir members became my closest friends.
Finding Community Within the Church
Walking into a new group can be scary. We might feel exposed, vulnerable, ignored, or invisible. But if we want to combat loneliness, we have to take that first step into community.
For a follower of Christ, the logical first step is through the door of a church. But all local churches are not the same, and small groups within the church vary. So, what should we look for when we venture into a new group?
