Isolation

Proverbs 18: ¹Whoever isolates himself seeks his own desire;
he breaks out against all sound judgment.

When a person isolates himself, he is being selfish. This is not God's will for man, to be alone. We need each other and we benefit from the counsel of our family in Christ surrounding us. Isolation is a form of rebellion and disobedience. If I isolate myself from my Christian family, I am not serving God.

It's a common saying, "Leave me alone." In this day and age, it is a glorified statement that simply proclaims one's need for independence and time to dedicate to one's self. Isolation is hardly viewed as sin, but here I see that it is just that. I think isolation is like a gateway type of sin in that once a person isolates him/herself, it opens them up for attack from the enemy and also begins a habit of gratifying the flesh. Isolation is a bigger problem than most realize and that is why it is so dangerous. Examples of isolation are, straying from accountability, avoiding telling the whole truth to siblings in Christ to appear more righteous, avoiding being a part of a biblical community such as a life group or ministry, avoiding contact with other Christians at church, and not going to church. I find myself falling into this at times where I know I am wrong but I am dreading correction. In those moments, I am CHOOSING to sin! Now, I know that solitude is a Godly practice. Solitude and isolation are different. Jesus sought solitude and modeled it for Christians. Solitude is time alone with God for prayer, meditation, reflection, and for the restoration of my spirit. It is a good and beneficial thing and it is a spiritual discipline. Solitude is proactive and it comes from a heart that is seeking more of God and less of self. Solitude is saying "I have things I'd like to be doing, but I am going to go to a quiet place and listen for God's voice and direction." Isolation is saying, "I don't feel like being Christ-like right now, so I'm leaving...I'm checking out or avoiding this situation." I must be aware of this in my everyday walk, and if I notice that I am seeking isolation, then I must turn back and repent. Asking my husband or Christian family for prayer is the best way to overcome this sin. I must also encourage friends and family that I see who are falling into this trap of isolation to come back to God and relationships with biblical community.

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your perfect design of Godly relationships. Please forgive me for being so selfish and sinful in seeking isolation. Lord, I run to You and Your children. May I never fear reproof. Also, please help me in leading back those who are running from You. I can name several friends right now who are avoiding their spiritual disciplines and choosing their flesh's selfish desires over what You want for them. May I speak to them boldly with truthful words in love. I love You, Lord. Jesus, thank You for being the perfect example of how to seek solitude without isolating ourselves from God and others. In the name of Jesus Christ I pray, Amen.