Last week we talked about identity. You are more than your grades, more than your mistakes, and more than what people say about you. At the core, you are a child of God. That truth never changes.
But even when you know who you are and even when you believe God loves you, you can still feel lonely sometimes.
Loneliness is heavy.
You can be surrounded by people at school, at practice, even at home, and still feel like no one truly sees you. I have watched kids hang out with people they would not normally pick. I have seen them say yes to things they do not believe in. Why? Because they do not want to feel alone.
We live in a culture that feels more connected than ever with group chats, social media, and FaceTime. Yet even with all that, so many still feel anxious, depressed, and alone. Connection is not the same as belonging.
We wear masks. Not the kind you put on at Halloween, but the kind no one can see. We pretend to be okay when we are not. We laugh at jokes we do not think are funny. We agree with things we do not believe. We post pictures that make life look perfect even when it feels messy. We do it all to fit in, but inside we wonder, “If they saw the real me, would they still want me around?” The good news is God already sees the real you and loves you anyway.
You are never truly alone.
God says, “I will never leave you or forsake you.” (Hebrews 13:5) That means whether you are at the lunch table or sitting by yourself in your room, His love is with you. He sees when you feel invisible. He loves you just as you are. You do not have to perform to belong. Even in those quiet moments when it feels like nobody understands, He has not walked away. You can talk to Him anytime.
When that ache of loneliness shows up this week, try this:
Talk to God honestly. Find a quiet space, close your eyes, and tell Him exactly how you feel. Ask Him to remind you that He is near.
Ground yourself in truth. Read Hebrews 13:5 out loud or write it somewhere you will see it during the day.
Reach out for real connection. Message someone you trust, a friend, mentor, coach, or family member, and be honest about how you are feeling. If you do not have someone like that, take one step toward finding community by joining a youth group, church small group, or faith-based club at school.
Do something life giving. Go for a walk, play your favorite song, journal, or do something creative that helps you remember you are alive and valuable.
You do not have to carry it by yourself.
Whatever you are going through, keep showing up. Keep trusting. You are seen. You are known. You are loved. You are not alone. Ever.
Keep the Faith.
Next Week: Real Life. Real Faith (Week 3) What Is Love?
