13 "He has removed my brothers far from me, And my acquaintances are completely estranged from me. 14 My relatives have failed, And my close friends have forgotten me. 15 Those who dwell in my house, and my maidservants, Count me as a stranger; I am an alien in their sight… 19 All my close friends abhor me, And those whom I love have turned against me. 20 My bone clings to my skin and to my flesh, And I have escaped by the skin of my teeth. 21 "Have pity on me, have pity on me, O you my friends, For the hand of God has struck me! Job 19:13-25, 19-21

Times of suffering are often times of loneliness. Sometimes the feelings of alienation are accurate. Sometimes they are imagined because even in the midst of a crowd, we can feel alone in our particular trial. Because suffering is part of our lot in life, we do well to think about how we handle the feelings of loneliness that so often accompany difficulties. Here are a few suggestions:

Remember that God is sovereignly in control of all things—including the most bitter of our trials. He has a purpose, even when we cannot see, or even imagine, what it might be.
Remember that God never leaves nor forsakes His own. No matter how alone we may feel, God is there. Believe it!
Realize that even when people around us seem unaware or even insensitive, our friends probably mean well. They often just do not know what to say or do. Try to see their noble motive, and overlook their fumbling words and manner.
Remember how you felt and what words or actions you desired when the tables turn and you have opportunity to minister to someone else who is at the bottom looking up.

My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into
various trials, knowing that the testing of your
faith produces patience. ~ James 1:2-3