“One who isolates himself pursues selfish desires; he rebels against all sound wisdom.” – Proverbs 18:1

Isolating yourself from others goes against all sound wisdom. There are several reasons this is true. The one we talk about most often is the fact that you need others. None of us can walk through this world alone. We need the encouragement, strength, support, correction, and wisdom that can only be found by being in community with one another.

But there is another reason that isolation is unhealthy; and it is one we probably don’t think about all that often. Proverbs 18:1 tells us that the person who pursues isolation is a selfish person. One reason that you cannot live life alone is that people need you! You have something very important to offer others, and when you keep to yourself, you rob them of the gift that is you. Now, in order to truly understand this and live it out, you must have a sacrificial attitude. To love others and invest in them is often painful. Sometimes we are not appreciated, sometimes we are betrayed, and sometimes we end up losing those we love most. To truly invest in others often hurts. But the other option – isolation – is unwise, unhealthy, and incredibly selfish. So, I encourage you to step out there, leave the isolation, invest in others, and start living in community today. As God said at the very beginning of creation, “It is not good for man to be alone!” (Genesis 2:18).

Heavenly Father, thank You for creating us to be in community with You and with one another. Give us the wisdom to see the dangers of isolation and give us the love to live sacrificially for one another, just as You have sacrificed for us.

In Christ’s Service,

Pastor Shane Cannon