Written by Dynamis Ministries | March 2, 2023
It wasn’t too long ago when social media was new and unfamiliar. Today, most of us interact with at least one of these platforms on a frequent basis. Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and Snapchat are only a few of the ways we are able to stay connected with hundreds of people from the palm of our hand. With the ways these platforms have expanded our social connections, it’s surprising that more and more people are reporting feeling alone. That’s right, in a recent study it was reported that over 50% of Americans today are living in loneliness¹. The pervasiveness of loneliness across all demographics have even led sociologist to declare we are living in a “loneliness epidemic.” Isn’t it interesting that we’re living in an age where we’re more broadly and quickly connected with people than ever in the history of the earth, and yet we are also the loneliest we’ve ever been?
It’s heartbreaking to see that despite our connectivity with others in today’s world, so many of us still go through our days feeling alone. This means that despite all the people we intersect every single day – at work, at the grocery store, at the gym, at the café or restaurant – many of them are feeling alone, unheard or unnoticed. The effects of loneliness can be serious too. Loneliness has been linked to anxiety and depression and can increase the risk of heart disease and even dementia. Not only does loneliness affect our mental and physical health, but it takes us out of the way God designed his children to live. Throughout Scripture it is evident that we are created to live in fellowship with others. This may be seen most clearly in the creation account where God declares, “It is not good for man to be alone” (Genesis 2:18). But the reality for many people is that we’ve grown increasingly isolated and distant from true connection with others.
One way we can draw each other back into God’s original design for community is through relational generosity. At its most basic level, relational generosity is about being present to others. This means that from a posture of generosity, we initiate connections with other people. Whether it’s with a stranger on the street or a family member we know well, when we initiate a connection we are giving them our attention, acknowledging their presence, listening to their voice, validating their thoughts and feelings or simply being present in their company. Relational generosity is simple and requires no special talent. We can all practice it every single day.
In today’s age, this area of generosity may be one of the most impactful, although most overlooked, gifts we can give. If you don’t believe it for yourself, test it out today. Give someone a sincere and specific compliment, showing them that you notice them and they are valued and witness what kind of reaction it gets. Chances are a simple complement, that costs us nothing, will give someone an immediate boost of joy and happiness that will brighten their day. Let’s not neglect this opportunity to connect with others in relational generosity. In doing so, we’ll be make a difference in the loneliness so many are experiencing, living more and more on earth as it is in Heaven!
¹Cigna Health. (2020). Loneliness in the Workplace: 2020 U.S. Report. https://www.cigna.com/static/
