In this episode of Live from Rest, host Steve Smith delves into the profound and timely topic of loneliness and its impact on our mental health. Steve is joined by Rachel Gardner, a well-known Christian conference speaker and author, who brings her expertise in relationships to the discussion. Together, they explore what it means to be created in the image of a relational God and how to deal with loneliness in ways beyond what technology can offer.

Join Steve and Rachel for an uplifting and insightful conversation that reminds us all of the power of relational love and the importance of community in our journey toward mental and spiritual well-being.

Here are three reasons why you should listen to this episode:

1. Understand the complex relationship between loneliness, mental health, and our need for connection.
2. Gain practical advice on how to deal with loneliness, emphasizing the importance of reaching out to others and finding community within the body of Christ.
3. Learn how to reimagine our relationships to strengthen our connection with others and deepen our faith.

Resources

• Live from Rest Podcast: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Website
• Live from Rest App: Google Play | App Store
• Romance Academy
• Sign up for a FREE excerpt on Lucinda Smith's book, 'The Red Thread': Forgive

Episode Highlights

Meeting Rachel Gardner

• Rachel Gardner is the founder of the Romance Academy. She is also a popular speaker and author with expertise in relationships.
• The Romance Academy began as a BBC Two documentary exploring whether a biblical sexual ethic could help young people in the UK, even without a Christian background.
• Rachel was involved with the Preston Minister and her recent sermon on healthy relationships in the context of God's relational nature.

The Impact of Lockdown on Relationships and Mental Health

Rachel: “There's something at the core of us that longs for a deeper connection that technology can't touch, revealing a profound truth about our relational nature.”

• The lockdown had detrimental effects on many people, as most humans are social creatures.
• The enforced isolation and loneliness had detrimental effects on the mental health and physical well-being of many people.
• Steve Smith mentions the National Health Service's recognition of connectedness as a key factor in good mental health.
• Although we have the technology to easily communicate with anyone, the lockdown revealed that people have a deep longing for real connection.
• Rachel shares her personal experience of not seeing her parents for over a year and the emotional impact of this enforced loneliness.

The Biblical Basis on How to Deal with Loneliness and Relationships

Rachel: “God's creation of humanity is not out of loneliness but out of love. We are loved into being, a beautiful mystery that reflects our need for relationships.”

• Rachel Gardner emphasizes the biblical basis for relationships, referencing the creation narrative in Genesis.
• God created human beings out of love, not out of a sense of lack or loneliness.
• The Christian creation story contrasts with other creation myths, emphasizing God's love and the beauty of human relationships.
• Rachel discusses the importance of understanding that God loves us into being, rather than creating us because of any perceived lack.

The Role of Relationships in Faith and Community

Rachel: “The answer to loneliness isn't marriage; it's the body of Christ. We belong to each other, and in that belonging, we find the connection we deeply crave.”

• Rachel Gardner reflects on the importance of connection with both God and other people, referencing the Genesis narrative in which God says it was not good for man to be alone.
• There are various physical expressions of love in the Bible, beyond just sexual intimacy, and the importance of the body of Christ in providing connection.
• Rachel challenges the church to embody God's love in their relationships, especially in marriage.
• She also emphasizes the value of single individuals in the body of Christ and their unique contributions to the community.
  
  

How to Deal with Loneliness and Connect with Others

• Steve Smith and Rachel Gardner discuss the challenge of being mindful of those who are on the outside and the importance of inviting others into our communities.
• Rachel recalls a painting by Rublev that symbolizes the invitation to join the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, and how this should be reflected in our families and relationships.
• Rachel offers advice for those struggling with loneliness, emphasizing the importance of not giving into a shame narrative and recognizing that God's love is always present.
• She suggests finding one or two people with whom to connect deeply and acknowledging that reaching out to others can be a blessing to both parties.

A Prayer for How to Deal with Loneliness

• Rachel Gardner leads a prayer for the lonely, emphasizing God's love and the importance of being a source of blessing to others.
• Steve Smith thanks Rachel Gardner for her insights and encourages listeners to use the Live from Rest app and other resources available on their website.
• Steve Smith invites listeners to support their ministry through a donation and concludes the podcast with a final thank you to Rachel Gardner.

About Rachel Gardner

Rachel Gardner is a dynamic speaker, author, and advocate for healthy relationships. As a co-founder of the Romance Academy and a prominent voice in Christian communities, Rachel brings a compassionate and insightful perspective to the challenges of modern relationships. Deeply committed to her faith, she explores the intersection of theology and everyday life, helping others navigate the complexities of relationships — and of course, learn how to deal with loneliness.

Through her work, Rachel empowers individuals to build meaningful relationships grounded in love, respect, and authenticity. Her approach blends biblical teachings with practical wisdom, offering guidance on how to thrive relationally in today’s fast-paced world.

Connect with Rachel on Instagram or X. You can also explore her writings and talks to gain deeper insights into cultivating healthy, life-giving relationships through her website.

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