Words of Comfort, Hope and Joyনমুনা

The Psalmist uses vivid imagery to convey his anguish, pain, and frustration at this misfortune. The pain of loneliness caused by rejection is likened to being a lonely bird—a “desert owl”, “owl in the waste places”, or a “sparrow on the rooftop.”

Mother Teresa rightly said, “The most terrible poverty is loneliness and the feeling of being unloved.” The Psalmist is not living on a lone island but is surrounded by people. However, he is isolated by the majority who are against him. “All the day my enemies taunt me; those who deride me use my name for a curse” (Psalm 102:8, ESV).

Though isolated by his society as a sufferer without hope, the Psalmist remains in a mood of solitude. Solitude is a voluntary and empowering choice, whereas loneliness is an involuntary and distressing condition. Solitude is more a state of mind and heart than a physical place. We can enjoy solitude even amidst a noisy crowd. Loneliness yields to solitude when the heart finds and delights in something higher. In the case of the Psalmist, it is God who is “enthroned forever” (Psalm 102:12). The faith that the Lord “regards the prayer of the destitute and does not despise their prayer” (Psalm 102:17) alleviates the stress that loneliness has caused. He further affirms that “The children of your (God’s) servants shall dwell secure; their offspring shall be established before you” (Psalm 102:28, ESV).

Loneliness causes throbbing pain. But when we transform that into moments of celebrating our past with the Lord, and become excited about his promises for the future, we reach the shores of solitude that lift our hearts to a new level of exhilaration.

When feeling isolated or rejected, intentionally turn your heart toward God, finding comfort and strength in His enduring presence. Embrace moments of solitude by focusing on His faithfulness and promises, allowing your spirit to be lifted beyond pain.