Our modern times show us the extraordinary blessings that the sacrifice and resurrection of Jesus Christ have made available. Technological and other intellectual advances are nothing short of astounding. However, we must not forget that darkness has advanced as well. Dating can be an excursion of disappointment mixed with the kind of dysfunction and craziness we’ve never seen, especially in a world that seems to thrive on instant gratification and superficial connections.
For many, the loneliness that often comes with being single can feel overwhelming. It’s easy to think, “If only I had someone by my side, I’d be happy.” In moments of solitude, that desire can turn into a longing so intense that it clouds our judgment. Hoping to fill that void, some of us begin to entertain any-and-everything, getting into relationships that don’t honor us or our values. We can become trapped when the enemy tricks us into believing we’ve finally met someone that will solve our “loneliness” issue. This is the how the enemy uses our loneliness to blind us from what we truly need to see.
But here’s the truth: getting caught up with focusing on what we don’t have isn’t helping. It causes us to abandon the level of gratitude we should have towards God for how wonderfully He’s blessed us.
The enemy knows how to play on our emotions. He whispers lies that we’re not enough, that love is a quick fix to our loneliness. This can lead us down a dangerous path, where we confuse counterfeits for the real thing. Proverbs 4:23 reminds us, “Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life.” When we let loneliness dictate our choices, we can easily end up in situations that pull us away from our true purpose.
It’s vital to remember that God sees us in our loneliness. Psalm 34:18 assures us, “The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” He’s not distant or indifferent to our feelings; instead, He invites us to draw near to Him. God desires for us to have fulfilling significant relationships. It’s because of Him that we can love as deeply as we do, but we can’t place anyone or anything above our relationship with our Heavenly Father. So, rather than seeking fulfillment in a relationship with someone, we can find our strength and identity in Christ. This is what fills our cups.
It’s so tempting to jump at the first sign of affection, to think, “This could be it!” But we need to be cautious. Romans 12:2 encourages us, “Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think.” It’s all too easy to settle for what looks good on the surface, but this kind of thinking isn’t the mind of Christ. He tells us in Matthew 6:33 (NLT), “Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need.”
We know that the enemy is a counterfeit, using people who look like a blessing to trick us into investing our hearts. We need to recognize these distractions for what they are. They are sent to slow us down, decrease our stamina, and throw us off the trail of what God has for us. Make no mistake, the enemy is looking for openings to introduce these counterfeit blessings, but this is why our discernment must be strong as we walk closely with the Father.
Proverbs 16:25 (NLT) says “There is a path before each person that seems right, but it ends in death.” This verse applies even more when we’re vulnerable and waiting for the blessing of a spouse to manifest. However, we must have faith that God will always meet our needs. During those moments when loneliness feels like it’s engulfing us, we must turn to God and His Word for refuge. Remember, you’re not alone in this. Keep the faith and stay open to what God is doing in your life. Let’s do all we can for the Kingdom and trust Him with all our hearts. In His perfect timing, the right relationship will come along—not as a counterfeit, but as a beautiful blessing. Keep seeking, keep growing, and trust that God has a plan that’s bigger than our loneliness. ■
Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Wheaton, Illinois 60189. All rights reserved.
“Loneliness and Counterfeits”, written by KLizzie, edited by Reverend Fran Mack, for Sundie Morning Sistas ©2024. All rights reserved. All done to the glory of God through Jesus Christ, our Lord! SMS is dedicated to inspiring and encouraging Christian Women through the Word of God.