Messages of Hope
Real stories. Real hope.
‘Over 80% of Australians crowd together in cities and large towns yet so many feel alone. Have you ever faced such a lonely time? Do you feel there is very little to hold on to, to keep you going in life? There is a way forward, a step we can take to become connected once again.’
Do you sometimes look at the people around you and think ‘I wish I could be like them’? While social media is a great way to connect, it can also give the illusion everyone else’s lives are more exciting than our own. It can cause us to focus on what we don’t do and don’t have, and that can make us feel lonely, even if we’re surrounded by people who love us.
Listen as John Henderson talks about loneliness, and how the ‘cure’ can come from outside ourselves.
Listen to the episode
Key takeaways from this episode
- Loneliness is widespread despite crowded lives. Many people, especially in cities, feel disconnected despite being surrounded by others. Frequent relocations, busy lifestyles, and broken relationships contribute to this isolation.
- Loneliness can have serious impacts. It can lead to feelings of worthlessness, jealousy, anxiety, bitterness, and even destructive behaviours—both inward and outward.
- We are created for connection. From the very beginning, God said it wasn’t good for people to be alone. Companionship—both with God and with others—is central to a meaningful life.
- God enters our loneliness. Through Jesus, God experienced human isolation, abandonment, and suffering. He knows what it feels like to be alone and offers companionship, understanding, and hope.
- Faith connects us to God and others. Trusting Jesus gives us assurance that we are never truly alone. Becoming part of a faith community provides belonging, support, and shared purpose.
- Hope for the journey. Like walking a tightrope, life can feel risky and uncertain. With Jesus walking alongside us—guiding and catching us when we fall—we can move forward step by step, knowing where we are going and who is with us.
Episode transcript
Click to view PDF transcript
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