As a single Christian woman, most of my time is spent alone. There are times when I am lonely, and times I‘ve allowed myself to become depressed. Yet, I have learned over the years this behavior comes from my emotions, my flesh. It is a human reaction, but it does not have to have control over me. Notice I used the word, “allow” previously. If I allow it, then I also can disallow it. How? I am glad you asked.

 

I have God’s love revealed in Jesus Christ and the Word to comfort me.  My fellowship is with the Father. 1 John 1:7 I never have to be alone. We so often read scripture and do not get ahold of the truth it is saying. It is not until we make it come alive in our hearts that it reflects outward. 1 John 1:3-4 says, “…truly our fellowship is with the Father and with His Son Jesus Christ…..that your joy may be full.” Joy is not something I can manufacture for myself. It is a wonderful by-product of my fellowship with God. These scriptures came alive for me. I look to the Source spiritually when I appear to be lonely and physically I reach out to saints for fellowship. Why should I experience loneliness and depression when I can bring it to submission to God, exchanging it for joy and peace?

 

Fellowship simply means “to have in common”. Christ died for me that He might have something in common with man. When I have fellowship with Christ, it is a special time of undivided attention. He speaks to me, and His Holy Spirit tells me what to pray. I am drawn to a conviction of those things that I need to surrender. God reveals Himself to me. He answers my questions. He gives me the faith to trust Him with everything in life. I am assured of His blessings and the rewards of obedience. It is truly joy unspeakable.

 

I can take the joy of the Lord everywhere, fellowshipping with the saints (those having things in common). Our love is shared as we encourage and uplift one another. My focus is no longer on me, no time for self-pity or fretting, it is more fulfilling to walk beside someone in need and serve others. Oh, the joy of fellowship.

Sybil Clanton