How Can the Lonely Be Helped?

A principal way to help the lonely is to show them love. Time and again the Bible encourages God’s people to show love to one another, especially in times of trial. “In brotherly love have tender affection for one another,” wrote the apostle Paul. (Romans 12:10) In fact, God’s inspired Word says: “Love never fails.” (1 Corinthians 13:8) How can you show love to those who are lonely?

Rather than reject or ignore lonely people, concerned individuals can show their tender affection by patiently helping them whenever possible. They can be like the man Job, who said: “I would rescue the afflicted one crying for help, and the fatherless boy and anyone that had no helper. . . . And the heart of the widow I would make glad.” (Job 29:12, 13) Appointed elders in the Christian congregation and compassionate friends can act in the same considerate way by providing the basic human needs of understanding, warmth, and comfort. They can show empathy, and at times they can fill a need for confidential talk.​—1 Peter 3:8.

Often, it is the little things that friends do for lonely people that are vitally important. For example, when a fellow believer loses a loved one in death, much good can be accomplished through kind acts of genuine friendship. Do not discount little kindnesses, like an invitation to a meal, a sympathetic ear, or encouraging conversation. These things are very effective in helping a person to combat loneliness.​—Hebrews 13:16.

[Box on page 24]

HOW YOU MIGHT HELP THE LONELY

▪ Provide understanding, warmth, and comfort

▪ Fill a need for confidential talk

▪ Persevere in doing the little things that help