When You Fear Loneliness

Psychologist Kenneth E. Miller suggests that we reframe “social distancing” as “physical distancing.” 

This is a great idea, for two reasons.

First, “physical distancing” describes the actual need of the day. Staying at least six feet away from others is mandatory. 

Second, “social distancing” (apart from its meaning in the context of the coronavirus pandemic) can contribute to loneliness, anxiety, depression, and other health problems.

So, we should use social media and other technology to stay in touch with each other and to support each other. But, again, we must do what health experts are pleading with us to do in physical terms.

As we work to save ourselves and others, what biblical assurance can we claim today?

In Every Valley, God Is With You

David’s most famous psalm includes this declaration, “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me” (Psalm 23:4).

Having traveled in the Holy Land more than thirty times over the years, I can tell you that such valleys are common especially in the Judean desert. Some are so deep that shadows can hide predators who threaten the sheep that pass through.

In such times, the sheep need the shepherd not ahead or behind them but beside them. That’s why David says of his Shepherd, “You are with me.” Our Lord is with us in every valley we enter.

The shepherd’s “rod” was a short club, three feet long, with a heavy weight at one end. The shepherd used it to kill snakes, beat back wolves, and flatten thorn bushes. He threw it over the heads of his sheep to kill a charging wolf. He also used it to drive a wayward sheep back into the fold.

His “staff” was eight feet long with a crooked end. He used it to keep the sheep together, to guide them, and to pull them back from thorn bushes and rocky crevasses.

His presence with them in the valley, and his rod and staff, “comforted” them. The Hebrew means “to preserve a feeling of security, peace, and joy.” Even as they walk through the valley.

Draw Near To God

But these sheep must choose to trust their shepherd. 

They must choose to stay at his side, to stay under the protection of his rod and staff, to stay in his presence. The staff is only eight feet long. They must stay close to their shepherd.

Suffering can make us self-sufficient. We decide we can beat this thing. We work harder, run faster, climb higher, determined we will win. We can run ahead of God and expect him to follow. 

But the sheep can’t get through this valley themselves. The wolves and the thieves and the thorns and the crevasses will get them every time. Self-reliance is a sure prescription for disaster.

And suffering can make us angry as well. If God is such a great shepherd, why are we here? Why should we trust him any longer?

In the valley, we must choose whether we will depend on God or ourselves. Scripture promises, “Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you” (James 4:8).

How will you draw near to your Shepherd today?