“Just one?” she asked, eyebrows up. “In that case I can seat you now.”

She showed me to a tiny table wedged into a corner near the kitchen. All around me sat couples and families. I scanned the menu but already knew what I wanted. On Sundays my singles group often came here, but today I was alone.

The server came by. “Just one today?” she asked, perky, annoying. Plastering on a smile, I said, “Yes. Just one. And I’m ready to order.” As I waited for the food, I pulled out my journal and started writing. God, I get so tired of being single. Loneliness is always just below the surface. And on days like today, it bubbles over.

“Bridget?” came a voice beside me. I looked into the smiling face of Andrea, a former coworker and friend I hadn’t seen in months. Jumping up, I hugged her. “It’s great to see you!” she said. “Can I sit for a minute?”

“Of course,” I said, offering her the other chair. “Isn’t Tim with you?”

“Yes, but we just ordered so I have time to catch up with you before the food comes.” Andrea’s presence and caring attitude turned my mood around. After she left, I wrote, Lord, thank You for reminding me that You see me. Thank You for sending a friend to lift my spirit.

Singleness can sometimes mean loneliness at work, at church, at home. If you’re single, know that the Lord God sees you and loves you. He has a plan for your life that only you can fulfill. He wants you to seek Him first.

And regardless of your marital status, you probably know someone who is lonely. Invite her over for a meal. Be a friend. You’ll both be blessed.