By Steven Temple

Contributing Columnist

 

Solitary confinement is employed for disciplinary reasons most often within the prisons and jails. The cells are small, low light, and those placed in it are subjected to different types of sensory deprivation. Prolonged confinement in this manner often leads to many mental and physical issues. It is one of the most miserable punishments that man can undergo.

Throughout our prison systems and in some cases, prisoners of war, many have been isolated in this manner as part of their punishment for the offenses that they have committed. When we think of it being done to others we do not really see the issue, but if it were to happen to us we would surely find fault in it. Many different lawyers and activist have tried to abolish this type of disciplinary action through legal action and protests over the years.

Many times in our lives we wish for solitude and to be away from the noise of everyday life. We imagine ourselves in a place with no interruptions, no voices, no distractions, just time to ignore everything and take a break. We get to the place where we just want to be alone and not bothered by anyone or anything. We need a break. We need a physical and mental break is how we deem the need.

Wholeheartedly I understand the ideology behind us wanting this time away from everything and everyone.  I have been to that place many times. The majority of the time these wishes come from a place of depression or stress. Many times my job has gotten to me and I have just needed a break and sought for a moment of peace. I have even thought, half heartedly to myself, solitary confinement doesn’t sound too bad at that moment. Other times I have been so deeply hurt from a loss of a loved one or some type of bad news that I did not want to talk about it and would have rather been by myself.

Although we can wish for these times they are not what we need. When we confine ourselves we are alone with all of those negative thoughts that haunt us daily. Not only will we have these thoughts continue to bother us and drag us further into anxiety or fear we can be bombarded by the enemy. Satan would love nothing better than to get us alone, without any support, without any help, without a voice of reason, so that he can manipulate us even further and take advantage of our isolation.

The Bible teaches us to not forsake the assembling of ourselves in Hebrews 10:25. The Lord wants us to gather amongst those that we can be edified, exhorted, lifted, and encouraged by because iron sharpens iron. In our weakest moments of life we do not need to carry the burdens alone yet we need to have the support and help from those around us. Being lonely or in confinement can only hinder our recovery or our victory. It is important for us to have that congregation or group to lean on when we are struggling.

It is important for us to have the right circle to envelop us in this life. We need to know those around us, trust them, and have confidence in who we call our friends. In order to do so, we have to learn to be that circle for others in their time of need. I know there are many suffering today and would rather suffer in silence and alone. If you are one of those, please make sure that you understand you are stronger with the alliance than you are standing alone.

Don’t regress into solitary confinement. If you do not have that circle in your life now, it is time to build it. There is nothing greater in this life than to have a church family that you can depend on. Become part of one today.

 

Pastor Steven Temple is the Pastor of The Church on the Hill in Rose Hill, VA. You can reach Pastor Steven at pastor.steven.temple@gmail.com