Episode 24-Transforming Loneliness with guest Ruth Graham

Studies show that Gen-Z is the loneliest generation despite the pervasiveness of technology. However, loneliness isn't new; it can be experienced by a single person, a married individual, a person in a church community - even in families. So how do we keep this experience from evolving into a lifelong condition? Jim welcomes author, speaker, and founder of Ruth Graham Ministries, Ruth Graham to discuss her book, Transforming Loneliness: Deepening our Relationships with God and Others When We Feel Alone. Having lived through many seasons of loneliness herself, Ruth shares how being honest with God and a trusted friend opens up the door for transformation - and how loneliness has a positive side if we look for it. Jim's TakeawaysReplenishing RelationshipsWe have to seek replenishing relationships. We all have VDPs in our lives - Very Draining People - but I want to focus on VIP’s. Do you have VIP’s in your life? People who really replenish your relationships? We need friendships primarily in two areas:Mentors - do you have someone who can coach you, and give you wisdom and wise counsel? Someone you can imitate? These mentors can also be found in books in certain seasons of our life - but they shouldn’t be your primary mentor.Peer Support - This could be one person or a small group of peers that you are honest and open with - you tell them when you’re lonely, hurting, struggling, etc. A good peer relationship will be someone who shares back, and you can walk alongside, pray with, and encourage each other - and hold you accountable.HomeWord Website: https://homeword.com/HomeWord Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@homewordJim Burns Blog: https://homeword.com/jims-blog/HomeWord+ Online Courses: https://homeword.com/homeword-plus/About Ruth Graham: http://www.ruthgraham.com/meet-ruth-graham/Ruth Graham Ministries: http://www.ruthgraham.com/Leave a Message for HomeWord: 949-485-3905Have a question you want Jim to answer? Email us! [email protected]:Transforming Loneliness: Deepening our Relationships with God and Others When We Feel Alone: https://a.co/d/6PmxxM7In Every Pew Sits a Broken Heart: https://a.co/d/8BoLlJBRuth Graham BooksOrder Jim’s New Book:A Student’s Guide to Sexual Integrity:  https://homeword.com/product/students-guide-to-sexual-integrity-gods-plan-for-sex-and-your-body/Send us Fan Mail