God With Us

By: Bob Beck

Monday, July 6, 2026

“The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel” (which means “God with us”). Matthew 1:23

The scriptures tell us Jesus' name (Immanuel) means "God with us." In Genesis Chapter 3, God exiled Adam and Eve from the garden because of their disobedience. Then, Genesis 3:8 says after they ate the forbidden fruit, they hid from God. It's a sad verse because it shows us their relationship with God had been damaged. But Adam and Eve's "original sin" didn't just affect them; it separated everyone from God until Jesus arrived.

Our modern world is plagued by an epidemic of loneliness. Social media has replaced real friendships for many people. I see couples in my neighborhood staring at their phones as they take a walk "together." The next time you eat out, look around the room... most people are looking at their phones instead of talking to each other.

Depression is rampant, and much of it is connected to a lack of friends. The holidays can be especially tough because our friends aren't always available. Whenever I'm sharing my faith, I've found that many people say they believe in a non-involved God. They believe God created them, but they also believe He has a "hands off" approach in their lives.

But that is incorrect thinking! It doesn't reflect God's character, because an approach like that would cause loneliness. In Genesis, we see the exact opposite. God never wanted us to be lonely, and He still wants to be the best friend we've ever had! Ephesians 2:12 says without Jesus, we'll be "without hope and without God."

Jesus came to save us, and to reconcile us back to God. While He was here, Jesus was fully God and fully man so He could understand what it's like to be human. That includes understanding what it feels like to be lonely. If you're feeling lonely, tell God about it! He's promised to send His Holy Spirit to comfort us when we're feeling lonely.

The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us... John 1:14

But one of the best ways to combat loneliness is joining a small group at Church. Yes, it can sound intimidating, and "yes" it may take us outside our comfort zone... But we'll instantly make new friends! But they'll be different (in a good way) from our friends in the world. What's different? We'll share a "common denominator", and His name is Jesus! Step out in faith and sign up for a class or a small group. Then, watch how many new friends God sends your way!

God has a solution for loneliness, and His name is Immanuel (Jesus)!