The Danger of Isolation

Recently, I heard a pastor speak on the subject of solitude, and the importance of recognizing the difference between solitude and isolation. It was a good message; one that is near and dear to my heart.

I am the type of person who craves, requires, and thrives in solitude.

This may surprise some of you. After all, I am 95% extrovert. I love being around people. I enjoy meeting others and making new friends. Crowds don’t give me anxiety. In fact, I rather enjoy a good party!

But the remaining 5% of me is hardcore introvert. This is the part of me that processes my thoughts, feelings and emotions. The part of me that contemplates and rejuvenates, is done in solitude.

I don’t wear my heart on my sleeve. On the contrary, my heart is buried deep within, rarely rearing its head in front of others, but most assuredly always in solitude.

Believe it or not, I have actually been accused of being heartless and fake because I fail to show emotion. This is not because of pride. It is simply the way God made me.

For all of you introverts out there, let me encourage you by saying that there is nothing wrong with you. You’re not bad or weird or cold. You and I just process differently, and that is okay.

The danger for both extroverts and introverts alike is trying to maintain a healthy balance.

For extroverts, your challenge may be in attempting to discipline yourself to spend time in solitude, when you would much rather surround yourself with people 24/7.

For introverts, your challenge may be found in refraining from too much solitude, easily resulting in isolation, which also is unhealthy.

 

I have spent the last few days pondering the importance of solitude vs the danger of isolation.

Here are a few of my thoughts:

Solitude, the way that Jesus modeled it, is healthy. It is life-giving. Isolation, the way satan intends it, is unhealthy. It steals our joy. #isolation #solitude Share on X

 

Solitude rejuvenates, recharges, and replenishes.

Isolation starves us. It leaves you feeling empty, lonely, and unfulfilled.

 

Solitude keeps us connected. This may seem contradictory, but I assure you when we spend time in solitude, it provides us the opportunity to be better connected to God, and to others.

In solitude, God can help us work through certain hurts and offenses, bringing us to a place of forgiveness and acceptance, which in turn, better prepares us to be well-connected to others.

Isolation separates us from God, and from others. It keeps us disconnected and alone. It provides ample room for the wolf to attack the sheep.

By remaining withdrawn, we knowingly or unknowingly reject the help of others. When we don’t make room for loving, caring people to come alongside us, and give support, we alone suffer.

 

Solitude is an instrument in the hands of the Lord.

When we are still and quiet before Him, it allows Him the freedom to speak Truth into our lives, and It provides us the ability to hear Him more clearly.

Isolation is a weapon in the hands of the enemy.

He too is given freedom to speak into our lives, but he does not speak truth. Instead he fills our ears with lies- “you’re not good enough,” “no one loves you,” “no one cares,” “you’re not worth their time,” etc.

 

Jesus modeled healthy solitude as a way of life.

In fact, He instructs us to do the same.

“When you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.” (Mathew 6:6)

 

There is something to be said for intentionally spending time alone with God.

Though Jesus was well known for His growing ministry amidst large crowds, He often withdrew to lonely places to pray.

This wasn’t something that just “happened.” It was intentional.

It’s important to note that Jesus did not slip away from the crowds to isolate himself and withdraw from ministry. Rather He sought solitude with The Father so that He could continue His ministry!

It was there, in the stillness and the quiet that His Spirit was replenished.

During these times of prayer, God spoke, instructed, guided, encouraged, strengthened, affirmed, and poured into Jesus.

 

It is the same with us.

When we seek the Lord in solitude, He is sure to meet us.

Through our communion with Him, we learn to discern His voice more clearly, even amidst the chaos and distractions of life.

In His presence we find rest for our weary souls. We attain clarity of thought and mind.

We are given guidance. God affirms His love for us.

We are refueled for the task at hand, and replenished for what lies ahead.

We NEED these times of solitude.

Without it, we end up tired, weary, empty and alone.

If it’s good enough for Jesus, it ought to be good enough for us!

 

I encourage you, if you’ve not spent precious time alone with God recently, DO SO!

Allow Him to pour into you and satisfy your soul.

 

“My beloved spoke, and said unto me, Rise up, my love, my beautiful one, and come away with me.”

(Song of Songs 2:10) 

 

Can you hear Him calling you?

 

 

Join the Discussion!

Do you consider yourself to be an extrovert or an introvert?

In what tangible ways have you learned to find balance in your life?

Share your helpful tips in the comments section below.