Emotions & the Bible: Understanding Feelings with Faith

Hagar was a servant, a foreigner, and a woman pushed aside. After facing mistreatment and rejection, she fled into the wilderness—pregnant, alone, and afraid. But there, in her loneliness, God met her.

He didn’t just rescue her. He spoke to her, called her by name, gave her a promise, and let her know:

“You are seen. You are not forgotten.”

In response, Hagar called God El Roi, meaning “The God who sees me.” This is the first and only time in the Bible someone gives God this name.

Loneliness is real—even in a connected world. It’s possible to be surrounded by people and still feel unseen. But the God of the wilderness still comes near. He sees the hidden, hears the silent, and comforts the abandoned.

Emotional Insight

Emotionally literate people can admit when they’re lonely. They don’t deny the ache—they bring it to God and seek meaningful connection. Loneliness isn’t weakness—it’s a signal: “I need presence.” And God offers His first.

Prayer

God, You are the One who sees me. When I feel invisible or left out, remind me that I matter to You. Help me to reach out for connection—and to be a friend to the lonely around me.

Reflection Questions

When have I felt most alone?
Do I believe God sees me even when others don’t?
Who might need me to be a sign of God’s nearness today?

Action Step

If you feel lonely, write a simple prayer to El Roi—“The God who sees me.”
If someone else seems alone, reach out with a message or a short visit. Just letting someone know they are seen can be a lifeline.