Never Alone: Finding True Friendship in Jesus

2023 was one of the most difficult years of my life. I went through a lot of emotional ups and downs, faced challenges at work, and dealt with personal issues that left me feeling incredibly sad and alone. During those times, I thought spending time with friends might help lift my spirits and give me the motivation to keep going.

I reached out to one friend, let’s call her Sushi. I asked if we could spend the weekend together because I was struggling and thought her company might help. But she told me she was too busy and couldn’t make time. I explained how hard things were for me, hoping she might understand, but she did not understand the gravity of my situation.

Feeling discouraged, I reached out to another friend, Susan, but she also said she was too busy. Then I tried talking to Natalie, but she was going through her own struggles and didn’t have the capacity to support me. One by one, I realized that the people I considered friends weren’t there for me during one of the hardest times of my life. I felt abandoned, and I sobbed alone in my room, feeling hopeless.

In that moment of despair, the Holy Spirit spoke to me, saying, “You may not have any friends to talk to, but you have Me. Would you like to talk to Me?” At first, it felt strange, but I began speaking out loud to Jesus in my room. It was awkward initially, but as I continued, it became a habit. From that moment in January, my life started to change.

Whenever I faced a problem—whether big or small—I brought it before Jesus. I poured out my heart to Him in prayer. I read somewhere that King David had a habit of bringing all his troubles to God, not to people, and that this is what made him a great king, warrior, and legend. God was teaching me the same lesson: to bring everything to Him.

Psalm 34:18 says, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” I experienced this truth firsthand. Jesus showed me that even when people fail us, He never will. He reminded me that He understands my pain, sees my struggles, and hears my cries. 

Jesus demonstrated His love for us by sacrificing His life on the cross, purchasing us with His precious blood. He is the ultimate friend, one who will never leave or forsake us.

If you’re feeling abandoned, lonely, or hurt by others, I want to encourage you: you are not alone. Jesus is near, and He cares deeply for you. Psalm 55:22 says, “Cast your burden on the Lord, and He will sustain you.” Bring your struggles to Him. Speak to Him openly, because He loves you unconditionally and is always ready to listen.

You don’t need to carry your burdens alone. Jesus is your faithful friend, your comforter, and your Savior. Trust in Him, and He will fill the void left by others with His overwhelming love and peace.