I know all too well what it is like to feel the agony of being around people for too long. I use the word agony because that is exactly how it feels. For years I thought there was something wrong with me and even questioned by salvation because I can’t talk to people.

I was conflicted because I thought this was outside of what scripture taught. How am I to evangelize if I can’t hit the streets and start sharing the gospel? How am I to thrive as Christian if I have no community?

I have simply come to the conclusion that this is not something that God wants me to change for it is his will for me to be secluded. I went from worrying about not being a good Christian to knowing that the this is exactly how God wants me to be. This is how I was created.

It is important to note that seclusion is not the same as isolation. The bible warns against seeking isolation since we need other godly people in our lives. Choosing isolation means choosing to cut everyone out of your life, and this is not biblical.

In America, those who thrive in solitude are faced with not only worldly pressure but pressure within the church. I know all too well what it means to be mocked and ridiculed within the church for being alone and not talking to others. The pain and frustration can be unimaginable.

Throughout the gospels, Jesus is found to be retreating to secluded places to pray and be alone with God. Jesus never sought crowds, he sought to avoid crowds. Jesus did not go into secluded places to avoid his ministry or because he hated people, but to spend time with God and replenish his spirit so that he can go out and serve more.

There are several more instances in scripture where God used periods of seclusion to prepare the hearts of his servants for their mission. Another huge encouragement for me is that God does not do this with just anyone, but only those who he chooses. If this is you, you are rare beyond belief and that is a cause for rejoicing.

If you are a follower of Christ and feel secluded and unable to interact with this world, fear not, for this is not condemnation, but confirmation that God loves you and is preparing you for greater things.