March 10
READ: Psalm 63 (longing for God)
Devotion
We are living in what many are calling an epidemic of loneliness. We are connected in more ways than ever, yet for many, the emptiness feels deeper than ever.
How can that be?
The issue of loneliness has always been there, but it was during the pandemic that it became front and center. In May 2023, the U.S. Surgeon General released a report calling loneliness and isolation a public health epidemic. The effect of the shutdown was starting to expose the impact.
Many wondered if things would self-correct and return to somewhat normal- whatever that looks like. Then in October 2024 and February 2025 after further research showed that this concern hadn’t faded; loneliness remains a deep and present struggle in our communities.
Some loneliness comes from seasons of life like a move, a loss, a transition, children leaving home. Other loneliness comes from betrayal - when trust is broken and relationships fracture. For many, there are times when we are just feeling alone. No dramatic story. No crisis. Just a quiet ache inside.
Where do we turn? What are believers to do when emptiness dominates our lives, our thoughts, and steals our joy?
David understood that kind of loneliness. Psalm 63 was written in the wilderness when his son Absalom betrayed David and sought to take his life. He was physically alone, politically threatened, and emotionally stretched. Enemies were speaking against him. His world felt unstable.
But David unlocks something important about loneliness. He doesn’t pretend it isn’t there, and he doesn’t obsess over it. He turns the emptiness into longing. Longing after a God who was very personal.
“God, you are my God… I thirst for You.”
Instead of letting loneliness or betrayal harden his heart, he directs his attention to God. David expresses his desire for God. One thing about the wilderness is that it strips away all distractions and reveals the only thing that matters.
David also remembers the times he already experienced God’s power and presence. “So I gaze on you in the sanctuary…” “When I remember you as I lie on my bed…” David looks back and remembers what God has done in the past. Remembering strengthens our faith.
And through it all…David found time to worship and meditate on God in the darkest hour. “My lips will glorify you… I will bless you as long as I live.” “I meditate on you during the night watches.” Psalm 63:3-6
He chooses to praise God even before his circumstances change. He fills his thoughts with God during the quiet moments of the night. David shows us that loneliness can either make us bitter and turn us inward toward self-protection, or it can lift our hearts upward into a deeper dependence on God.
Reflection
1. When you feel empty or alone, what do you usually turn to for comfort or strength?
2. David says he “thirsts for God.” What might it look like for you to seek God more intentionally during this season?
3. How can remembering God’s past faithfulness help you trust Him in the season you are in right now?
Prayer
Lord, You know the moments when I feel empty, tired, or alone. Thank You that I do not have to hide those feelings from You. I am glad I can come to you and admit that my soul is thirsty.
Help me seek you above everything else. Teach me to remember your love is better than anything this world can offer, and when I experience difficult seasons, help me stay close to you Lord.
In Jesus’ name,
Amen.