Usually around the holidays newspapers and magazines carry articles about a common affliction suffered by many during this time of year–depression. Many experience this emotional state because they are lonely. Perhaps they have lost a lifelong mate, or their children no longer live nearby. Reflecting on past years of enjoyment and excitement only serves to intensify the problem.
To make matters worse, it has now been discovered that those who battle frequent bouts of depression are “four times more likely than others to have a heart attack” (Denton Record-Chronicle, 12-18-96, 15A). Great! One more thing to worry about and become depressed over!
The apostle Paul was once deserted. After many years of faithful service (which included enduring physical attacks and mental anguish), he found himself on trial with no one to support him.
“At my first defense no one stood with me, but all forsook me. May it not be laid to their charge” (2 Tim. 4:16).
Well, we have no mention of whether this trial occurred during the holidays or not, but since the apostles didn’t celebrate Christmas, it certainly wasn’t a factor in adding to Paul’s isolation. The apostle who labored so diligently to build up others, who emphasized so much hospitality and fellowship and love, was alone. Those who feel alone during the holidays know the feeling will pass, and soon things will return to normal. Paul, however, was on trial for his life. And he stood alone!
How did he do it? If there were ever a cause to feel depressed, it would be the precise situation he was faced with. One would expect the enemies of Christianity to persecute him–and possibly decide to take his life. But to endure such an injustice without the aid of any brethren to offer comfort and support seems excessive.
Paul remained steadfast because “the Lord stood with me and strengthened me” (2 Tim. 4:17). Regardless of what happens here on earth–no matter how disappointed we might be in human beings, God is with us. We have not believed in vain. The same Lord who is our Shepherd and accompanies us through the valley of the shadow of death is also near through trials and periods of loneliness. “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble” (Ps. 46:1).
Did Jesus feel deserted in his hour of need? His disciples could not even stay awake while He agonized in Gethsemane. They fled at His capture. No one defended Him at His trial. What incredible loneliness He must have felt on the cross–totally deserted in the midst of a multitude.
God cannot be unsympathetic with those who feel alone. Paul also understood people being thoughtless at the very time they should exercise the most concern. But he knew God had not forgotten him. Neither does the Lord overlook or lose sight of even the least of those who have obeyed the gospel, who belong to Jesus. Our knowledge of this fact should fortify us and cause us to pray, as it has been expressed in song: “In life, in death, O Lord, abide with me!”