I was hoping for some insight but left with tears still feeling like no one wants to be friends with me. I’m using this long time to be with the lord and deal with anything I need to transform and I have learned from past relationships. This is a critical time-a critical era and I truly don’t want my life to be about me. I have tried over and over to create relationships beyond just church, but after almost 10 years at this church, I have had no reciprocal interest . So I’m looking outside the church for godly women and continue to cast my cares on The Lord. He is more important than anything here on earth. Thank you all for sharing. You are all such lovely people.
I feel this way too. I find making friends was so much easier years ago, not because we were younger but because society as a whole was much better and more kind.
I really appreciate what Jennie is saying here but the reality is that most people today are unwilling to be friendly and don't prioritize time with a friend. There's been so many times when I've reached out and its gone unreciprocated. it hurts alot when you try and go through what feels like rejection. Most the time people just don't want to put forth any effort. That's why I've let up because its exhausting when you're the only one who cares and tries. This struggle has been a lifelong one for me....it is so hard to connect with people these days. I try to be very friendly and loving to my neighbors but most of them don't say hi back and ignore or are very cool. They don't want to be bothered. I can say that I don't have 1 close friend in my life , only acquaintances. I've prayed and my prayers have not been answered but I'm thankful Jesus has always been my friend. The loneliness is very real
I 100 percent felt this to my core and I’m 24, and there’s no one even close to my age in my church so i feel ya. Ill be praying for ya just know you’re not the only one going through this and i know lots of other people feel this way too.
I too went through this, and prayed. " I started saying out of my mouthe, "I'm not lonely, and I'm accepted in the beloved!" I also started playing worship music. This really changed everything for me. I too have prayed, and in fact, have showed myself friendly still to this day, as the Word of God suggested we do, for friends, to no avail. I believe We're living out Isaiah 60 and the Light of Christ has risen upon the Body of Christ, and Gross darkness over the people. God's people are few and in between; you would be surprised. And sadly, there is a HUGE amount of Church goers who desire the Light of Christ and don't have it, and secretly envy you for this. So a lot of God's Children are in these times alone in this realm, but not in the Heavenlies. God desIres relationship with us, and He will speak and comfort us. I have found GREAT contentment in these times, and believe God still can bring together Devine connections. Be encouraged, my sweet, we are here with you, enduring the same challenges.
I am 46 and lost a very close friend a few years ago. God showed me that i was using her in place of talking to Him. So i went a few years of not having a close friend here on earth. I prayed about it and he sent me someone who is in her 30s. She is very dear to me and I'm thankful to God for her. I say that to you because maybe there's someone in their 20s or 40s as a possible friend for you. I pray God will give all who read this a friend. God bless you sister, big hug to you.
Growing up in South Africa people made friends and kept them for life.. I have been in the US for over 30 years and the friendships in my home country are just as strong as all those years ago!
Lyn McLaren♡♡♡ That's what I call Super Amazing form GOD♡♡♡ Wonderful News♡♡♡ GOD BLESS YOU♡♡♡ Have A Wonderful Blessed Peaceful night ♡♡♡ GOD IS SO GOOD♡♡♡
The isolation of the past 2 years has been devastating on the seniors who have been dealing with loneliness within the simple effort of trying to remain healthy. For many of them, as they emerge from the "strict" application of isolation, their friends are no longer there. Sadly, in today's environment, the older community - especially in rural areas - just don't have the opportunities to create that "village" you're talking about.
I think at this point just finding one friend outside of our home would make our lives so much richer. It’s hard even in suburbs. Me n my husband are looking for a church. I think the key for us is to get involved. Their not going to come to our door. And after 5 years of isolation if I don’t punch a hole out of here and chance it all it will only get worse. Ide settle for a village of 2 or 3.”
Absolutely. It is so much more difficult in rural areas. I live in a small town; so I feel it too. People who live in larger towns and cities; don't understand what it's really like to live in smaller towns / rural areas. The good news: the rapture is so close now. Every prophesy is lining up with the book of Daniel and the book of revelations. Thankfully; Christ followers will not have to endure this planet for much longer. Heaven will be amazing ~ ! And so much more than anyone has imagined. Stay strong, keep praying, don't give up. Jesus want's us all to strong strong now and not to loose hope.
One thing that has really disappointed me is all the murmuring and gossip from the people that were "my friends." I'm taking time to disconnect from those relationships and I am being more intentional about the kind of people I become friends with.
I kinda feel like the shaking that The Lord has been doing is partly to divide. I wonder if sometimes we don't feel so comfortable in a place that in order to get us to move to the next phase God has for us is to make us uncomfortable. (though I think it's important to forgive also). Or perhaps we become complacent that we stop growing? Iron sharpens iron but if we are complacent we are dull and incapable of sharpening anything. I don't know what it is for anyone else but I feel what you just said and it's hard.
@@Grace.Victorious we definitely need friends who challenge us to grow. Sometimes we can get caught up in making our friendships more along the lines of how the world views friendship - girl night, girl time, etc. rather than bringing Christ into the center of it and challenging one another to grow in the Word, in prayer, and just in personal growth. There's an added dimension to friendship when you connect on a spiritual level. Praying we all find such friends.
I am going through that myself. Gossip and talk of others breaks up friendships and families. I have had to step away from a sister who puts you down because she is jealous.
I really love your show and your honesty. The truth is I live in Sweden and people don't talk to strangers, but actually this week I meet a women who actually opened up to me, no, we didn't become friends, but I realised that God wants me to expand my horizon. Please pray for me that I find true Christian friends where I am. And I am praying for you.
@@karenadams2512 don't bank on it.... The Most High God can send total strangers when you need them most. Sometimes God will be the only one, which is ultimately the best ONE!!
I was so encouraged, convicted, and emboldened by this that while I was watching this I reached out to a friend by text that I hadn’t been with for a while. Here’s how I reached out. “Free today? I’m thinking of going to Micheals and Hobby lobby to look at brushes and paints. Want to join me? We could do lunch if your schedule permits.”
We love you Joni, and continue to pray for you for continued strength and comfort 🙏🙏 God bless Cindy for being the kind of friend she is to you. God bless your entire family - you are loved! Love from United Kingdom
When I was born again and walked a new different life, I lost many friends being in my 60's. Thank you Joni table talk and my church you are my friends and help me on my journey.❤
This is a very real topic and a hard subject for a lot of different people. We live in a culture that is very busy, and stuck on themselves. It is hard to find true friendship. When u are blessed to have a close friend or friends, cherish them because it is very rare. Out of the 12 disciples of Jesus, He only had 3 in His inner circle that were the closest to Him. This is our example. Most people will be your acquaintances and are not worthy to receive your intimate self. ALWAYS pray before revealing information about yourself or your family with someone. TEST YOUR FRIENDS! JESUS DID!
Thank you so much for this reminder! It’s ok to not have a lot of friends, but rather those really rare, close few. Jesus was a man of sorrows, and rejected by many. It comforts me to know he shared in so many of those feelings I’m feeling!
My husband and I have been praying for good godly friends and a great church we can plug into. We’re in our mid 40’s with no kids and find it very hard to fit in at church since so many people have kids and they bond by talking about their kids and we don’t have that to talk about so it’s been hard.
Same here. We are the odd couple. No kids. No family near by. I'm almost 55; my husband is 66. We are friendly and helpful to people, especially in our church. There are people who love and respect us, I know. But it's been tough lately since my inner circle has moved on to other things in life, even moving away. Now, I feel I am back at square one with trying to rebuild an inner circle as Jenny talked about in this session. I still love those 2 ladies dearly, but life is taking us different directions. It hurts. I have so many wonderful memories full of togetherness and laughs. I miss them dearly, but trying to be strong about it. Life is life. Seasons come and go, but I am one of those people who wouldn't mind if things stayed the same as far as friends staying around. But that is selfish because sometimes they have to move on. They have to take care of family or just grow into the next season. That's life. But one can't help feeling left behind.
@@bevmal6865 I say that all the time to that there are seasons in life and nothing really lasts forever. I’m from Canada and my husband and I moved to a different province where we didn’t know anyone, it was hard being away from family, we tried to get involved at church and it just didn’t go anywhere plus my husband was in school so during the week it conflicted with his schedule, we started going to cell groups but had to stop. We recently moved back to our home province and just can’t find a church we feel we can connect with, and we don’t have any Christian friends here. We are praying so we’ll see what God does.
@@christinme23 great friends are a blessing. It seems, in the social media era we live in, people are more difficult to connect with. This seems ironic, since there are many ways to reach out to people but few seem to have the time or the desire to connect. Building relationships/friendships takes time and energy that most don't seem to have. As a elementary teacher, once school starts back, my time and energy pretty much get consumed by that. My hubby and I don't mind having people over on weekends. But we have to do most of the asking or inviting. I can't even remember the last time someone invited us to an event or dinner. We even open our home for Thanksgiving to anyone in our church who doesn't have family nearby or can't travel to see family. We ususally end up having anywhere from 7 to 15 people. It's a blessing to get to do this since we have no family here either.
@@bevmal6865 that’s so nice of you to open your home to people for thanksgiving. That’s all you can do is what you know to do. God sees you reaching out to those in need and he will meet your needs as well.
In my 30-something years of life I've become closer friends with older women (50s) who are so much more wise and trusting. I've had countless experiences of being intentionally hurt through gossip/distrust/backstabbing by Christian women my own age. I've found peace in only a single friendship with my best friend from highschool who is also a christian and my husband whom I only confide in. These days it's difficult to find anyone to trust. But I thank the Lord that I can also talk to Him and seek peace for where I am today.
You are so right on!!! I was lonely, longing for female friendships. I joined a bible study then that church and a small group there. We are so happy there! Wonderful Christian friends, both male and female. So blessed. It is our married, couples group and women's bible study.
What I have noticed is that people are insecure today and instead of building positive and constructive relationships many are negative and cliquish at someone else's expense. There are good people out there - it's just harder to find them.
I need a true friend who genuinely cares even if I'm not able to accommodate their requests all the time. Some people kind of disappear when you become less valuable to them or start setting boundaries with them. It just reveals who they really are and you realize later on they were not good or true friends anyway.
I have tried to make friends in churches over the years but they have their set group of friends. During Covid and since not one person other than the Pastor has reached out to me. I have had so called " friends" but they soon leave not wanting friendship anymore. Who needs that. I have Jesus and guess that is all I need at 69.
Yes it is very difficult when there are established groups of friends in churches. Life is good for them in the inner circle and miserable even lonely for everyone else? WE preach love God's love but how many people feel loved in a church who show up on a Sunday? That is the test of if we love God do we love a brother a stranger who we meet each week on Sunday at church or a sister or a widow orphan or elderly person? How can we say we love God who we don't see but don't love one another in a church we do see. right in front of us? I always feel convicted and challenged when he Holy Spirit brings this word to mind.
I agree with you on this. I don’t even try to get close to anyone at my church. We have a small church but they really know how to hurt a person. I stay away. I don’t go to church full time, partly because of my job, partly because of the way women treat other women.
I realized i was making new friends at work but i was putting them.off for my old friends. I decided to embrace my new circles and not dwell on the past.
Please ladies, DON'T interupt the speaker with your opinions/viewes - it is bad manners my mum taught me. What is the use of having a speaker ? Thank you for wonderful programs that I can learn from. God bless you all.
Just recently been thinking about this topic and how I was feeling with people I hang out with. They might think you are their friend, but to you they just people you hang out whenever you just want to escape from being lonely because you know you can't trust them and they don't bring much value in your life. I'm tired of takers who are only concerned about their problems and issues whenever you talk to them.
Wow, I know what you mean, I have two friends one I can talk & laugh about anything but when I asked her to feed my cats for one week she said yes and only checked on them once, and then went to Italy at the last minute. Known her for 15 yrs love her but can’t count on her. My other friend we walk and pray every week, We have shopped, had lunch, I have invited her fam over but it’s always no, in 20 years I’ve never been to her house or met her husband….she’s been to mine though , it makes me feel like I’m just a filler friend, entertainment, you know….it’s lonely …..both have called me in emergencies and I am there for them, but I know they would not be for me. I wish things were different…..it’s like this for my hubby and kids too, lonely….I don’t get it , we aren’t boring, are funny and live godly lives, I thought we were alone in this….now I will include all of us in my prayers, we have our Lord and hope for our future with Him, may God Bless All Of You 🌸🕊🌸
I had my 2-5 but I couldn’t give 1 what she wanted from me without putting my family in a situation. So that one dumped me and the other one got quiet. Loneliness is REAL! Mourning is REAL!
Unfortunately, some of us where deprived from that feeling of community or family, because if your mom or dad don't make an effort then the kids continue a similar road or become friends with all the wrong people because you are yarning for some comfort & companionship and later realize those people only used your precious time.😢. Or when you get sick or go through a very hard situtation you get to see who where your true friends/family. Thankfully, God gave me a great little boy who helped me feel less lonely. NOW, Im open and kind to everyone, but I only open my heart to those that make an effort to share their valuable time with me, whether its in person or even through a text/phone.❤
I think so many people are exhausted and don't want to be bothered by anyone. People work, in many cases, more than one job and barely have time for their own family. Who has time to make friends? In my own life, every close friend I ever had moved out of state. People at work, who I thought were my friends never kept in touch after the business closed. I continue to reach out to people in kindness, but no one has time these days.
Us too ( me, hubby & kid) alone after being lied about at a church….10 yrs now ….but God is good and we might not go to church but we still learn and worship the Lord…but it’s hard, it doesn’t help we live in Sodom, CA…..we so want to move….let’s pray for each other 🕊…….someday we won’t be lonely, Jesus is coming soon!
It's nice but you ladies interrupt constantly. Let someone finish a thought before you all jump in with a new one. I'd love to hear what your guest has to say if you ever let her get a word in edgewise.
That's great that all of you have known each other from infancy. You attend big churches with opportunities if you want them. Reiterating how awesome your lives are answers nothing for the rest of us.
I was just talking to my coworker about churches in other countries. I could not find the right words, but yes community is diminished in churches in America.
Jennie has some nice ideas, and really works if you live and work in one location long term. My job doesn’t allow for this idealistic friend life because I do shift work and not always in the same location - plus I am the only women working at my job. This has been very difficult for me because I am in a line of work/mission field that I know God has called me to, but has not allowed much opportunity to create life-giving community.
I can relate with this speaker I was builied most of my schooling life had no friends. I've never found a church that I fit in though I know God fills the whole when you lonely he is a friend a father and loves unlike people in the world.
We go to a big church and I greet and am in a ladies group of age 60 and over ladies and it's the best! If not, I wouldn't like it because it's so big! Love you ladies❤️
In your group of women, remember the lonely woman who looks unsure or doesn’t have a circle of women chatting with her and eager to sit by her. Invite her over for coffee. Ask her to go for a morning walk. Ask if there is anything on her heart that you can pray for.
Yes indeed, loneliness is next level especially when you're single, no family or friends. I am trying to lean on God more throughout my walk with him. Forever under God's construction.
I'm a 51-year-old female and single at this point with no friends or close family members. God seems to remove everyone from my life and I've been alone for much of my life. I've shown myself friendly to many but still, there is no reciprocation. It's quite difficult because there isn't anyone I can think of who I can call if something happens. Having said that I can also testify that God has been that friend that sticketh closer than a brother. I have nothing to complain about because the truth is, Jesus has been everything to me and I've developed such a close bond with Him that even my students recognize that I am married to God as they said to me recently. I am still praying for a godly man to come into my life and for healthy friendships because all things are possible with God. I wish I was close to you so we could get to know each other and be friends in Christ but I am in the Caribbean and I think you may be in the USA.
I prefer one on one interviews without all the extra chatter. The reason I normally don’t watch Jonis Table Talk but I wanted to hear what Miss Jennie had to say about this.
I agree with reaping and sowing...but your also surrounded by family and are publicly known...its not that way for everyone sweetheart..that's of alot of people's reality..I relate to Anna being a senior..Anna's adorable
I'm 77 had a friends I helped a lot ot. Then suddenly she said no more friendship. Then she moved next door to me starting telling people lies on me and now I have not one friend but she is doing great
We know why loneliness lives in 3of5 people. I think these stories of everybody's life on here didn't help real hurting lonely people. Jennie says: "everyone listening on here is tearing up." No, I'm not tearing up, I'm annoyed with the chatter and laughter and the shallow understanding of the topic on a deeper level.
There is a place in each of us that only the Holy Spirit can fill. I have found getting my eyes off myself and onto others helps. I thought this show was full of good suggestions.
@@lindajones4438 If they were promoting this book to garner some reach, it failed for me. I watched this twice to review my critique only to find my instinct remained. I also read the reviews as a follow-up and found I was not alone; some of the book reviews replicated the shallowness of the topic presented at this table. I hope Table Talk recognizes that their cuddly conversation and pack of friends did not resonate with the depth of hurt and loneliness 3 out of 5 feel in real life.
I agree. Sorry, bless you Joni and the team. I'm a 54 year old female with no kids. Men told me in the street how ugly I am and whenever I meet people, I can feel their disgust just looking at me. Don't matter how much makeup I put on and try and look good. People just come to me and are "nice" when they need money or something else. I had cancer last year and am sorry that I survived it! I pray every day that God will just end this useless, stupid life and maybe HE can be gracious enough to allow me into heaven.
@@sonjamyburgh212 people are nasty and you are NOT ugly I know! You might be insecure and nasty people sense it so they are boosting their ego by putting you down. You are not ugly!!!! Don’t pay attention to comments and individuals like that! ❤️🌷❤️🌷
I love the topics Joni covers so much, however on this one topic of loneliness, a one on one with the author would have been more helpful, there’s lots of us out here who want nice christian friends, we try…..either no one has room for another friend, or no time cause they work, or they are immature still keeping up with the world…..the end times are upon us or what? Right. 🤪 I haven’t tried for a long time because I live in a state where the wokeness has spilled into the churches, and boy have I looked! I so want to move, but maybe it’s like the bible says people have grown cold…..at least someday we will have eternity and millions of friends thanks to Jesus….till then lets agree to pray for us lonely in the body, lets pray and be kind when we can, smile at a stranger, or just compliment their cute sweater….that person is probably lonely too and you can make them feel happy even if it’s just a moment, God can plant a seed…..love you all friends! Take care!🕊
I think God brings in those people in your life that you know we're going to be with you through thick and thin not everybody that's in the church is going to be there for you. Because you can be in a church full of people and try to reach out and be involved and stuff but if they don't engage it's hard to really connect.
I grew up mostly alone except for a crazy brother. I left home at 16 got married and divorced in 4 years. I am basically a loner . I don’t believe people are real. They smile at you and talk nice to you but don’t mean it.
This kind of attitude is not biblical and will cause you lifelong loneliness and hurt. Not to mention, you are breaking a commandment by thinking suspiciously about people and not loving your neighbor. You cannot possibly share the gospel with others if you regard them in this way.
@@AMcDub0708 stop judging her life and have some compassion….This is the problem with church…yes we are to decern good and bad, but this is not the time, this is what she lived, God bless -you have had a lovely life, not all of us have, when you have people you trusted hurt you, and it happens all too often, your awareness become keen and you decide oh well, I have Jesus, I have the Holy Spirit and I have Father God…….just remember when you talk to others and you have Jesus…they will know you by your love…..God’s love overflowing thru YOU…..and friends, we might be lonely here on earth but oneday…..We will be with our Jesus and each other…..take care / hugs to you
I think a lot of people I'm just don't borrow from neighbors anymore because they don't know if the neighbors they have are going to be open for that or even good neighbours at all really. I know which neighbors I would ask and which ones I wouldn't. Times have changed since I grew up in the 70s and they are not the same today as they were yrs. ago
So very true sister Rosy. It's a fake phony world .. even in the churches. Your not wrong. Narcissists love going to church to make everyone think they are good people. Sending you my love
So true 15 years after divorce people keep you off and with no real family it's hard all the years and praying and having faith fore a good husband it's all noth hapening. That's hard because you begin to think is God noth hearing this.
I traded my lifestyle for Jesus and lost all my friends except one..respiratory issues keep me home 90 % of the time so on line church services are a blessing...its harder to find friends in your 60s also
Now that the author has found her people. Does she actively make an effort to befriend others instead of sending them to volunteer at child care? Because that is exactly how it works in churches and it's fake.
try finding a hobby with your husband you can do together. Also, if you work, or attend church etc, YOU show yourself friendly. You need a life outside of your marriage to have things to talk about with your spouse. Invite couples over on the weekends,etc. This is your life-make it count! Bless you!
Worldly people bond over sin, and church people fight over righteousness. But there are good followers of Christ, even here in my town, but they can’t stand the toxic leadership and environment of any of the churches here. We all want to start more house church meetings.
Everyone in The Body of Christ needs to fast and ask God for his Armor and also for THE GIFTS OF HEALINGS, IRON IS MIXING WITH CLAY (TRANS-HUMANISM/Daniel 2:43)🙏
I was hoping for some insight but left with tears still feeling like no one wants to be friends with me. I’m using this long time to be with the lord and deal with anything I need to transform and I have learned from past relationships. This is a critical time-a critical era and I truly don’t want my life to be about me. I have tried over and over to create relationships beyond just church, but after almost 10 years at this church, I have had no reciprocal interest . So I’m looking outside the church for godly women and continue to cast my cares on The Lord. He is more important than anything here on earth. Thank you all for sharing. You are all such lovely people.
I fully can relate
Me too😔
@@sw9868 same
Same
I feel this way too. I find making friends was so much easier years ago, not because we were younger but because society as a whole was much better and more kind.
My special prayer for today is to find my circle of healthy community. 🙏🏻❤️
I really appreciate what Jennie is saying here but the reality is that most people today are unwilling to be friendly and don't prioritize time with a friend. There's been so many times when I've reached out and its gone unreciprocated. it hurts alot when you try and go through what feels like rejection. Most the time people just don't want to put forth any effort. That's why I've let up because its exhausting when you're the only one who cares and tries. This struggle has been a lifelong one for me....it is so hard to connect with people these days. I try to be very friendly and loving to my neighbors but most of them don't say hi back and ignore or are very cool. They don't want to be bothered. I can say that I don't have 1 close friend in my life , only acquaintances. I've prayed and my prayers have not been answered but I'm thankful Jesus has always been my friend. The loneliness is very real
Praying for God to send you a close friend.
I 100 percent felt this to my core and I’m 24, and there’s no one even close to my age in my church so i feel ya. Ill be praying for ya just know you’re not the only one going through this and i know lots of other people feel this way too.
I too went through this, and prayed. " I started saying out of my mouthe, "I'm not lonely, and I'm accepted in the beloved!" I also started playing worship music. This really changed everything for me. I too have prayed, and in fact, have showed myself friendly still to this day, as the Word of God suggested we do, for friends, to no avail.
I believe We're living out Isaiah 60 and the Light of Christ has risen upon the Body of Christ, and Gross darkness over the people. God's people are few and in between; you would be surprised. And sadly, there is a HUGE amount of Church goers who desire the Light of Christ and don't have it, and secretly envy you for this. So a lot of God's Children are in these times alone in this realm, but not in the Heavenlies. God desIres relationship with us, and He will speak and comfort us. I have found GREAT contentment in these times, and believe God still can bring together Devine connections. Be encouraged, my sweet, we are here with you, enduring the same challenges.
this is what i have been going through i wished you lived next door i have reached out so much and people just dont care or are so self absorbed
I am 46 and lost a very close friend a few years ago. God showed me that i was using her in place of talking to Him. So i went a few years of not having a close friend here on earth. I prayed about it and he sent me someone who is in her 30s. She is very dear to me and I'm thankful to God for her. I say that to you because maybe there's someone in their 20s or 40s as a possible friend for you. I pray God will give all who read this a friend. God bless you sister, big hug to you.
Growing up in South Africa people made friends and kept them for life.. I have been in the US for over 30 years and the friendships in my home country are just as strong as all those years ago!
That’s pretty awesome :)
Lyn McLaren♡♡♡ That's what I call Super Amazing form GOD♡♡♡ Wonderful News♡♡♡ GOD BLESS YOU♡♡♡ Have A Wonderful Blessed Peaceful night ♡♡♡ GOD IS SO GOOD♡♡♡
Yes but things have changed here too especially in new areas. Earlier this year I found 2 of my school friends but most have passed away.
The isolation of the past 2 years has been devastating on the seniors who have been dealing with loneliness within the simple effort of trying to remain healthy. For many of them, as they emerge from the "strict" application of isolation, their friends are no longer there. Sadly, in today's environment, the older community - especially in rural areas - just don't have the opportunities to create that "village" you're talking about.
Good point
Its good book n she makes valid points BUT NOT PRACTICQL
I think at this point just finding one friend outside of our home would make our lives so much richer. It’s hard even in suburbs. Me n my husband are looking for a church. I think the key for us is to get involved. Their not going to come to our door. And after 5 years of isolation if I don’t punch a hole out of here and chance it all it will only get worse. Ide settle for a village of 2 or 3.”
Absolutely. It is so much more difficult in rural areas. I live in a small town; so I feel it too. People who live in larger towns and cities; don't understand what it's really like to live in smaller towns / rural areas.
The good news: the rapture is so close now. Every prophesy is lining up with the book of Daniel and the book of revelations. Thankfully; Christ followers will not have to endure this planet for much longer. Heaven will be amazing ~ ! And so much more than anyone has imagined. Stay strong, keep praying, don't give up. Jesus want's us all to strong strong now and not to loose hope.
Not only on the seniors!
One thing that has really disappointed me is all the murmuring and gossip from the people that were "my friends." I'm taking time to disconnect from those relationships and I am being more intentional about the kind of people I become friends with.
I kinda feel like the shaking that The Lord has been doing is partly to divide. I wonder if sometimes we don't feel so comfortable in a place that in order to get us to move to the next phase God has for us is to make us uncomfortable. (though I think it's important to forgive also). Or perhaps we become complacent that we stop growing? Iron sharpens iron but if we are complacent we are dull and incapable of sharpening anything. I don't know what it is for anyone else but I feel what you just said and it's hard.
@@Grace.Victorious we definitely need friends who challenge us to grow. Sometimes we can get caught up in making our friendships more along the lines of how the world views friendship - girl night, girl time, etc. rather than bringing Christ into the center of it and challenging one another to grow in the Word, in prayer, and just in personal growth. There's an added dimension to friendship when you connect on a spiritual level. Praying we all find such friends.
Yes me too! Friendship is hard over 60.
I am going through that myself. Gossip and talk of others breaks up friendships and families. I have had to step away from a sister who puts you down because she is jealous.
I really love your show and your honesty. The truth is I live in Sweden and people don't talk to strangers, but actually this week I meet a women who actually opened up to me, no, we didn't become friends, but I realised that God wants me to expand my horizon. Please pray for me that I find true Christian friends where I am. And I am praying for you.
This has been such a struggle for me! So glad I watched.
The Most High God will bring people into your life when you need them most!! Don't worry about "making" friends.
Amen.
God has us.
Yes
I pray for that but that hasn't happened for me. No family, no friends, no church family. So for me I can't bank on that. Just saying.
@@karenadams2512 don't bank on it.... The Most High God can send total strangers when you need them most. Sometimes God will be the only one, which is ultimately the best ONE!!
I was so encouraged, convicted, and emboldened by this that while I was watching this I reached out to a friend by text that I hadn’t been with for a while. Here’s how I reached out. “Free today?
I’m thinking of going to Micheals and Hobby lobby to look at brushes and paints. Want to join me? We could do lunch if your schedule permits.”
We love you Joni, and continue to pray for you for continued strength and comfort 🙏🙏 God bless Cindy for being the kind of friend she is to you. God bless your entire family - you are loved! Love from United Kingdom
When I was born again and walked a new different life, I lost many friends being in my 60's. Thank you Joni table talk and my church you are my friends and help me on my journey.❤
I can relate to that. Being a Christian, at times people just don't want to hear about it.
Ladies...over sharing is sometimes a trauma response from PTSD. We don't do it intentionally...
This is a very real topic and a hard subject for a lot of different people. We live in a culture that is very busy, and stuck on themselves. It is hard to find true friendship. When u are blessed to have a close friend or friends, cherish them because it is very rare. Out of the 12 disciples of Jesus, He only had 3 in His inner circle that were the closest to Him. This is our example. Most people will be your acquaintances and are not worthy to receive your intimate self. ALWAYS pray before revealing information about yourself or your family with someone. TEST YOUR FRIENDS! JESUS DID!
Thank you so much for this reminder! It’s ok to not have a lot of friends, but rather those really rare, close few. Jesus was a man of sorrows, and rejected by many. It comforts me to know he shared in so many of those feelings I’m feeling!
This was a great conversation and very much needed. People need people!
My husband and I have been praying for good godly friends and a great church we can plug into. We’re in our mid 40’s with no kids and find it very hard to fit in at church since so many people have kids and they bond by talking about their kids and we don’t have that to talk about so it’s been hard.
I'm in my 60's and still single. Same problem. Nobody identifies with the old spinster lady.
Same here. We are the odd couple. No kids. No family near by. I'm almost 55; my husband is 66. We are friendly and helpful to people, especially in our church. There are people who love and respect us, I know. But it's been tough lately since my inner circle has moved on to other things in life, even moving away. Now, I feel I am back at square one with trying to rebuild an inner circle as Jenny talked about in this session. I still love those 2 ladies dearly, but life is taking us different directions. It hurts. I have so many wonderful memories full of togetherness and laughs. I miss them dearly, but trying to be strong about it. Life is life. Seasons come and go, but I am one of those people who wouldn't mind if things stayed the same as far as friends staying around. But that is selfish because sometimes they have to move on. They have to take care of family or just grow into the next season. That's life. But one can't help feeling left behind.
@@bevmal6865 I say that all the time to that there are seasons in life and nothing really lasts forever. I’m from Canada and my husband and I moved to a different province where we didn’t know anyone, it was hard being away from family, we tried to get involved at church and it just didn’t go anywhere plus my husband was in school so during the week it conflicted with his schedule, we started going to cell groups but had to stop. We recently moved back to our home province and just can’t find a church we feel we can connect with, and we don’t have any Christian friends here. We are praying so we’ll see what God does.
@@christinme23 great friends are a blessing. It seems, in the social media era we live in, people are more difficult to connect with. This seems ironic, since there are many ways to reach out to people but few seem to have the time or the desire to connect. Building relationships/friendships takes time and energy that most don't seem to have. As a elementary teacher, once school starts back, my time and energy pretty much get consumed by that. My hubby and I don't mind having people over on weekends. But we have to do most of the asking or inviting. I can't even remember the last time someone invited us to an event or dinner. We even open our home for Thanksgiving to anyone in our church who doesn't have family nearby or can't travel to see family. We ususally end up having anywhere from 7 to 15 people. It's a blessing to get to do this since we have no family here either.
@@bevmal6865 that’s so nice of you to open your home to people for thanksgiving. That’s all you can do is what you know to do. God sees you reaching out to those in need and he will meet your needs as well.
Easy for all of you to find your community. You're on a national network
In my 30-something years of life I've become closer friends with older women (50s) who are so much more wise and trusting. I've had countless experiences of being intentionally hurt through gossip/distrust/backstabbing by Christian women my own age. I've found peace in only a single friendship with my best friend from highschool who is also a christian and my husband whom I only confide in. These days it's difficult to find anyone to trust. But I thank the Lord that I can also talk to Him and seek peace for where I am today.
You are so right on!!! I was lonely, longing for female friendships. I joined a bible study then that church and a small group there. We are so happy there! Wonderful Christian friends, both male and female. So blessed. It is our married, couples group and women's bible study.
What I have noticed is that people are insecure today and instead of building positive and constructive relationships many are negative and cliquish at someone else's expense.
There are good people out there - it's just harder to find them.
This is a very important topic
I need a true friend who genuinely cares even if I'm not able to accommodate their requests all the time. Some people kind of disappear when you become less valuable to them or start setting boundaries with them. It just reveals who they really are and you realize later on they were not good or true friends anyway.
Yes sister, when we start setting boundaries they don't like it
@@ravenraven966 amen. I live in LA. Would love to connect if you are in the area sis 😁
@@brideofchrist9577 , hi sister, unfortunately I'm in upstate NY. If you would like to connect through the phone let me know.🕊️🤍
@@ravenraven966 no problem we can connect through FB messenger! What's your FB name if you have
@@brideofchrist9577 , sister, I'm not on Facebook..
Praise the Lord
Bless you Joni and your “people”
We thank the Lord for your transparency
Love your topics
I needed this show so much. Toss Bingo!! Ty you Cindy & Joni
How can you build an inner circle when people mistake your kindness as weakness....
I have tried to make friends in churches over the years but they have their set group of friends.
During Covid and since not one person other than the Pastor has reached out to me.
I have had so called
" friends" but they soon leave not wanting friendship anymore.
Who needs that.
I have Jesus and guess that is all I need at 69.
Yes it is very difficult when there are established groups of friends
in churches. Life is good for them in the inner circle and miserable even lonely for everyone else?
WE preach love God's love but how many people feel loved in a church who show up on a Sunday? That is the test of if we love God do we love a brother a stranger who we meet each week on Sunday at church or a sister or a widow orphan or elderly person?
How can we say we love God who we don't see but don't love one another in a church we do see.
right in front of us? I always feel convicted and challenged when he Holy Spirit brings this word to mind.
@@Ozzie3356 I know how you feel
I agree with you on this. I don’t even try to get close to anyone at my church. We have a small church but they really know how to hurt a person. I stay away. I don’t go to church full time, partly because of my job, partly because of the way women treat other women.
@@nanny5217 I can relate.
@@Ozzie3356 We have reserved that love for "mission trips" only. So we can add another badge to our collection of being a "good christian".
It has nothing to do with what generation you’re from. Loneliness happens at all ages.
I realized i was making new friends at work but i was putting them.off for my old friends. I decided to embrace my new circles and not dwell on the past.
Especially in church, we pray for each other and move on
I agree that you have to be intentional & make time to check in, invite people places, etc.
Please ladies, DON'T interupt the speaker with your opinions/viewes - it is bad manners my mum taught me. What is the use of having a speaker ? Thank you for wonderful programs that I can learn from. God bless you all.
Just recently been thinking about this topic and how I was feeling with people I hang out with. They might think you are their friend, but to you they just people you hang out whenever you just want to escape from being lonely because you know you can't trust them and they don't bring much value in your life. I'm tired of takers who are only concerned about their problems and issues whenever you talk to them.
Sister it seems as if we share the same feelings. I wish I had a friend like you ❤️
Wow, I know what you mean, I have two friends one I can talk & laugh about anything but when I asked her to feed my cats for one week she said yes and only checked on them once, and then went to Italy at the last minute. Known her for 15 yrs love her but can’t count on her. My other friend we walk and pray every week, We have shopped, had lunch, I have invited her fam over but it’s always no, in 20 years I’ve never been to her house or met her husband….she’s been to mine though , it makes me feel like I’m just a filler friend, entertainment, you know….it’s lonely …..both have called me in emergencies and I am there for them, but I know they would not be for me. I wish things were different…..it’s like this for my hubby and kids too, lonely….I don’t get it , we aren’t boring, are funny and live godly lives, I thought we were alone in this….now I will include all of us in my prayers, we have our Lord and hope for our future with Him, may God Bless All Of You 🌸🕊🌸
I had my 2-5 but I couldn’t give 1 what she wanted from me without putting my family in a situation. So that one dumped me and the other one got quiet. Loneliness is REAL! Mourning is REAL!
Unfortunately, some of us where deprived from that feeling of community or family, because if your mom or dad don't make an effort then the kids continue a similar road or become friends with all the wrong people because you are yarning for some comfort & companionship and later realize those people only used your precious time.😢. Or when you get sick or go through a very hard situtation you get to see who where your true friends/family. Thankfully, God gave me a great little boy who helped me feel less lonely. NOW, Im open and kind to everyone, but I only open my heart to those that make an effort to share their valuable time with me, whether its in person or even through a text/phone.❤
Thank you for this message. Pray for me, I need good godly friends.
I think so many people are exhausted and don't want to be bothered by anyone. People work, in many cases, more than one job and barely have time for their own family. Who has time to make friends? In my own life, every close friend I ever had moved out of state. People at work, who I thought were my friends never kept in touch after the business closed. I continue to reach out to people in kindness, but no one has time these days.
I haven’t had friends or family in almost a decade. Everyone is fake anymore so i gave up.
I hear you😔
Same I hv given up.
Oh my goodness Calvin. You hit the nail on the head.💙
Us too ( me, hubby & kid) alone after being lied about at a church….10 yrs now ….but God is good and we might not go to church but we still learn and worship the Lord…but it’s hard, it doesn’t help we live in Sodom, CA…..we so want to move….let’s pray for each other 🕊…….someday we won’t be lonely, Jesus is coming soon!
Loved everything about this. Thank you so much for enlightening us
It's nice but you ladies interrupt constantly. Let someone finish a thought before you all jump in with a new one. I'd love to hear what your guest has to say if you ever let her get a word in edgewise.
Agree
@@NJItalianGal747 agree!!!
Very good December 2922
I am grateful for the few friends I do have. I know people have busy work and family lives.
Where did Jennie get that dress? Pretty
Good morning everyone Watching frm korea Godbless everyone outhere
You guys are my people 😎👍🙏
You all are so sweet, thankyou
Love the show, but please allow the guests to speak without interruption. 🌻
That's great that all of you have known each other from infancy. You attend big churches with opportunities if you want them. Reiterating how awesome your lives are answers nothing for the rest of us.
I find ppl but no one wants close connections just superficial
Same here! Thats my problem too
I was just talking to my coworker about churches in other countries. I could not find the right words, but yes community is diminished in churches in America.
Jennie has some nice ideas, and really works if you live and work in one location long term. My job doesn’t allow for this idealistic friend life because I do shift work and not always in the same location - plus I am the only women working at my job. This has been very difficult for me because I am in a line of work/mission field that I know God has called me to, but has not allowed much opportunity to create life-giving community.
I can relate with this speaker I was builied most of my schooling life had no friends. I've never found a church that I fit in though I know God fills the whole when you lonely he is a friend a father and loves unlike people in the world.
We go to a big church and I greet and am in a ladies group of age 60 and over ladies and it's the best! If not, I wouldn't like it because it's so big! Love you ladies❤️
In your group of women, remember the lonely woman who looks unsure or doesn’t have a circle of women chatting with her and eager to sit by her. Invite her over for coffee. Ask her to go for a morning walk. Ask if there is anything on her heart that you can pray for.
Very encouraging!
I do stuggle with friends i reached out to someone and she seem to be amazed i called i was in wal-mart and ended talk.
Yes indeed, loneliness is next level especially when you're single, no family or friends. I am trying to lean on God more throughout my walk with him. Forever under God's construction.
I'm a 51-year-old female and single at this point with no friends or close family members. God seems to remove everyone from my life and I've been alone for much of my life. I've shown myself friendly to many but still, there is no reciprocation. It's quite difficult because there isn't anyone I can think of who I can call if something happens. Having said that I can also testify that God has been that friend that sticketh closer than a brother. I have nothing to complain about because the truth is, Jesus has been everything to me and I've developed such a close bond with Him that even my students recognize that I am married to God as they said to me recently. I am still praying for a godly man to come into my life and for healthy friendships because all things are possible with God.
I wish I was close to you so we could get to know each other and be friends in Christ but I am in the Caribbean and I think you may be in the USA.
I prefer one on one interviews without all the extra chatter. The reason I normally don’t watch Jonis Table Talk but I wanted to hear what Miss Jennie had to say about this.
me too. They are all beautiful and amazing but for me, too many talking at once. It's a personal choice.
I agree with reaping and sowing...but your also surrounded by family and are publicly known...its not that way for everyone sweetheart..that's of alot of people's reality..I relate to Anna being a senior..Anna's adorable
I'm crying from the ER STORY...
Best show ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️ God bless
offense is a choice so helpful
Proverbs 12:16
Fools show their annoyance at once,
but the prudent overlook an insult ( offense)
Thank you so much for discussing this topic! More diversity on the panel would be nice to reflect God’s kingdom.
Political correctness doesn't work in God's kingdom.
Political correctness doesn't work in God's kingdom.
Thank You 💕. God Bless.⛪
There’s not enough people that do that 😭
Please pray for Brother Bill Johnson as you know he recently lost his wife Beni 🙏
I'm 77 had a friends I helped a lot ot. Then suddenly she said no more friendship. Then she moved next door to me starting telling people lies on me and now I have not one friend but she is doing great
I will pray for you….I’ve been thru similar….hugs to you….🕊……take care
Ladies, iam so very blessed .This is so good 🙌 😇
I hv given up I'm not Luckin out with getting friends
We know why loneliness lives in 3of5 people. I think these stories of everybody's life on here didn't help real hurting lonely people. Jennie says: "everyone listening on here is tearing up." No, I'm not tearing up, I'm annoyed with the chatter and laughter and the shallow understanding of the topic on a deeper level.
There is a place in each of us that only the Holy Spirit can fill. I have found getting my eyes off myself and onto others helps. I thought this show was full of good suggestions.
@@lindajones4438 If they were promoting this book to garner some reach, it failed for me. I watched this twice to review my critique only to find my instinct remained. I also read the reviews as a follow-up and found I was not alone; some of the book reviews replicated the shallowness of the topic presented at this table. I hope Table Talk recognizes that their cuddly conversation and pack of friends did not resonate with the depth of hurt and loneliness 3 out of 5 feel in real life.
Annoying chatter
I agree. Sorry, bless you Joni and the team. I'm a 54 year old female with no kids. Men told me in the street how ugly I am and whenever I meet people, I can feel their disgust just looking at me. Don't matter how much makeup I put on and try and look good. People just come to me and are "nice" when they need money or something else. I had cancer last year and am sorry that I survived it! I pray every day that God will just end this useless, stupid life and maybe HE can be gracious enough to allow me into heaven.
@@sonjamyburgh212 people are nasty and you are NOT ugly I know! You might be insecure and nasty people sense it so they are boosting their ego by putting you down.
You are not ugly!!!! Don’t pay attention to comments and individuals like that!
❤️🌷❤️🌷
This show is so tense and tight, that your guests feel tense. Give some grace to people. Since there is a time for everything. In my opinion.
Friends are so important in your life but trying to help a friend overcome her drug addictions to know Christ Canton Ohio please pray for her Connie
I love the topics Joni covers so much, however on this one topic of loneliness, a one on one with the author would have been more helpful, there’s lots of us out here who want nice christian friends, we try…..either no one has room for another friend, or no time cause they work, or they are immature still keeping up with the world…..the end times are upon us or what? Right. 🤪 I haven’t tried for a long time because I live in a state where the wokeness has spilled into the churches, and boy have I looked! I so want to move, but maybe it’s like the bible says people have grown cold…..at least someday we will have eternity and millions of friends thanks to Jesus….till then lets agree to pray for us lonely in the body, lets pray and be kind when we can, smile at a stranger, or just compliment their cute sweater….that person is probably lonely too and you can make them feel happy even if it’s just a moment, God can plant a seed…..love you all friends! Take care!🕊
I think God brings in those people in your life that you know we're going to be with you through thick and thin not everybody that's in the church is going to be there for you. Because you can be in a church full of people and try to reach out and be involved and stuff but if they don't engage it's hard to really connect.
Good show.
I'm laughing @ Rachelle sounds like she's having dumbe blond moments, but she's a genius! Love you babygirl! XO
I grew up mostly alone except for a crazy brother. I left home at 16 got married and divorced in 4 years. I am basically a loner . I don’t believe people are real. They smile at you and talk nice to you but don’t mean it.
This kind of attitude is not biblical and will cause you lifelong loneliness and hurt. Not to mention, you are breaking a commandment by thinking suspiciously about people and not loving your neighbor. You cannot possibly share the gospel with others if you regard them in this way.
Unfortunately this is how I feel, like the majority of people are full of crap.
@@AMcDub0708 stop judging her life and have some compassion….This is the problem with church…yes we are to decern good and bad, but this is not the time, this is what she lived, God bless -you have had a lovely life, not all of us have, when you have people you trusted hurt you, and it happens all too often, your awareness become keen and you decide oh well, I have Jesus, I have the Holy Spirit and I have Father God…….just remember when you talk to others and you have Jesus…they will know you by your love…..God’s love overflowing thru YOU…..and friends, we might be lonely here on earth but oneday…..We will be with our Jesus and each other…..take care / hugs to you
I think a lot of people I'm just don't borrow from neighbors anymore because they don't know if the neighbors they have are going to be open for that or even good neighbours at all really. I know which neighbors I would ask and which ones I wouldn't. Times have changed since I grew up in the 70s and they are not the same today as they were yrs. ago
Tbh everyone I meet don't want any friendship but superficial bs ....so I hv given up n no one wants to talk it's text only sad world we in
So very true sister Rosy. It's a fake phony world .. even in the churches. Your not wrong. Narcissists love going to church to make everyone think they are good people. Sending you my love
We millennials do need more community
So true 15 years after divorce people keep you off and with no real family it's hard all the years and praying and having faith fore a good husband it's all noth hapening.
That's hard because you begin to think is God noth hearing this.
I fully understand dear sister. I struggle too.
❤such a Blessing❤🤗!!!
People in my neighborhood don't want to be bothered.
its real !! lol i love how u said in the church !! so true
Hi, everything will come position on certain time it is his promise
Do good always, God rèwarded:not ending into 😟 God bless quately:
I traded my lifestyle for Jesus and lost all my friends except one..respiratory issues keep me home 90 % of the time so on line church services are a blessing...its harder to find friends in your 60s also
Now that the author has found her people. Does she actively make an effort to befriend others instead of sending them to volunteer at child care? Because that is exactly how it works in churches and it's fake.
Your so correct...
She makes good pts in book BUT ITS NOT PRACTICAL
Honestly said about Africa
Joni and Friends needs to vet people better. The guests they feature are not all sound or Biblical.
Have you considered that Joni and Friends might not be biblical itself too... Not everyone who says Lord, Lord......
@@SA-vw4ny good point.
Havent watched the video but everytime I make a friend at church they say they are going back to their country lol
I married but feel lonely alone n bored
try finding a hobby with your husband you can do together. Also, if you work, or attend church etc, YOU show yourself friendly. You need a life outside of your marriage to have things to talk about with your spouse. Invite couples over on the weekends,etc. This is your life-make it count! Bless you!
Sweet Cindy.. can I come fr coffee?😄
I’m hanging on to my Jesus in Jesus name
Emma Jesus is the best friend ❤️
Me2
Z
Ladies let's connect. I would love to be your friend!
Love anna
This is Melissa Robert my husband all u who r struggling as I am if u lived in my area I'd b ur friend it is a complicated thing it really is .
And why is Jennie Allen an expert...?
I hv book n stopped reading it cuz it's not practical esp in usa
Worldly people bond over sin, and church people fight over righteousness.
But there are good followers of Christ, even here in my town, but they can’t stand the toxic leadership and environment of any of the churches here. We all want to start more house church meetings.
Everyone in The Body of Christ needs to fast and ask God for his Armor and also for THE GIFTS OF HEALINGS, IRON IS MIXING WITH CLAY (TRANS-HUMANISM/Daniel 2:43)🙏
💖🙏💖
But the bible doesnt tell us a village should raise a child but parents
Go find a church..even that a challenge