Connect in Love
28th JANUARY 2023
He who willfully separates and estranges himself [from God and man] seeks his own desire and pretext to break out against all wise and sound judgment. Proverbs 18:1 AMPC
This verse is a warning about the dangers of isolating oneself from others, both from God and from our fellow human beings. When we separate ourselves from these relationships, we are essentially seeking our own desires and motives above all else. We are breaking out against the wise and sound judgment that comes from being connected to others.
One of the main reasons why people choose to separate themselves from others is because of fear. When we allow fear to control us, it can lead us to shut ourselves off from others and push them away. But this only leads to more fear and isolation. Another reason why people may choose to separate themselves is because of pride. When we think that we are better than others, or that we don’t need anyone else, we begin to push others away. But this pride is a false sense of security, because it ultimately leads to loneliness and emptiness.
So, what can we do to avoid separating ourselves from others? First and foremost, we must recognize that we are not meant to be alone. We are social beings, and we were created to live in an intimate fellowship with God, and in community with others. We are called to love and to be loved, and that cannot happen if we are isolated. Another way to avoid separation is by being open and vulnerable with others. When we share our struggles and fears with others, it allows them to come alongside us and support us. It also helps to break down the walls that we have built around ourselves.
Yet, most importantly, we must turn to God. He is the one who can truly fill the void that we feel when we are isolated. He is the one who can heal the wounds that we have from past hurt and rejection. He is the one who can guide us and give us the wisdom and discernment that we need to make wise and sound judgments.
Heavenly Father, we come to You today, recognising that we are not meant to be alone. We admit that there are times when we choose to separate ourselves from others because of fear and pride. We ask for Your forgiveness and for the strength to turn away from these destructive patterns. We pray that through our connection with You and with others, we will be able to overcome our fears and pride and find true fulfilment in life. We pray this in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Prophetic Declaration: Psalm 91
Bible In One Year: Genesis [49–50] / Exodus [1–2]