Practical encouragement and Scriptures for motherhood’s lonely moments

The weird thing about motherhood nobody ever talks about is the loneliness. Yes, you’re surrounded nearly constantly by the people who love you and need you most, but even in the middle of the fray, feelings of loneliness can creep in.

It’s a strange kind of lonely in motherhood. Often it comes from feeling unseen, overlooked and even discarded. Maybe you miss the you who is more than a mother. Maybe you want to connect with friends, but you’re all too busy being mom to make anything happen.

Maybe you miss adult conversation, or you long for a friend who truly understands what you’re going through. Maybe you’re carrying silent struggles in your heart and don’t know who you can trust to share them with.

I’ve been there in my own life, mama. I know what it’s like to smile on the outside while feeling lonely on the inside. And the truth is you’re not alone in those feelings. The Bible talks a lot about loneliness and reminds us again and again that even when we feel isolated, God is with us.

Loneliness in motherhood is real — even for us introverts.

That’s why I put together a free Bible reading plan on loneliness and God’s presence. It’s designed especially for Christian moms who need encouragement in this season.

You can download it here, and follow along as we spend the month focusing on Scriptures that remind us we are never truly alone.

But before we jump into the plan, I want to share some of the most encouraging Bible verses about loneliness that have carried me through the quiet, heavy moments of motherhood and reminded me that God’s presence never leaves.

God sees us in our loneliness

One of the hardest parts of loneliness is feeling invisible — like nobody notices what you’re going through. As moms, we pour ourselves out for our families in a hundred unseen ways every day. And while we don’t serve to be noticed, sometimes it hurts to feel like nobody really sees the effort, the exhaustion or the heart behind it all.

The beautiful truth is this: God sees you. Even when others don’t.

God sees the overlooked

“She gave this name to the Lord who spoke to her: “You are the God who sees me,” for she said, “I have now seen the One who sees me.”

Genesis 16:13 (NIV)

These words come from Hagar, a servant who was mistreated and cast aside. Alone in the wilderness, she felt abandoned, but God met her there.

He protected her, encouraged her through an angel and promised her son’s descendants would become a nation.

What’s remarkable is that Hagar, a woman with little standing, was the first to call God El Roi, “the God who sees me.” (She was also the first account in the Bible of an angel appearing to a person!)

The same God who noticed Hagar in the desert sees you when you’re wiping counters late at night, folding laundry for the third time in a week or holding it all together when you feel like falling apart.

God knows us completely

“You have searched me, Lord, and you know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways. Before a word is on my tongue you, Lord, know it completely.”

Psalm 139:1-4 (NIV)

God not only sees us like a casual acquaintance would, He knows every part of us inside and out. Throughout your path of life, God has been part of every moment and loving you through it all.

We can lean into the presence of God, knowing He truly understands us. When loneliness whispers you’ve been forgotten, God’s Word whispers back that you are fully known and deeply loved.

God holds us steady

“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

Isaiah 41:10 (NIV)

This verse has gotten me through one hard time after another ever since I was a child and learned it. The “do not fear” part is what initially drew me.

But, later in life, the second part is what has gotten me. Knowing I am held in the right hand of God being strengthened and helped by Him comforts my heart. Your Father in heaven is holding onto you while you are holding onto your children.

When a feeling of loneliness tries to creep in, remember that you are never alone. Not only is God with you, but you are held in the mighty hand of God.

There is no safer pace to be. His presence is steady, even in difficult seasons.

Mama, you may feel invisible at times, but you are never unseen. God notices you. He values the work you’re doing, both big and small, and He promises to walk beside you every step of the way.

A step for your week

This week, try writing “God sees me” on a sticky note and placing it somewhere you’ll see it often — maybe on the bathroom mirror or next to the kitchen sink. Let it be a daily reminder that even in the loneliest moments of motherhood, you are never out of His sight.

Bible verses about loneliness in the lives of God’s people

Loneliness isn’t new. Even in the pages of the Bible, we see men and women of faith wrestling with deep feelings of isolation. Sometimes, it came in the form of betrayal. Other times, it was discouragement or fear. If you’ve ever felt like no one understands what you’re carrying, you’re in good company.

These biblical figures remind us that loneliness doesn’t mean weakness or failure. It’s part of our experience as human beings. But in every story, God showed up.

Elijah’s loneliness

“He came to a broom bush, sat down under it and prayed that he might die. ‘I have had enough, Lord,’ he said. ‘Take my life; I am no better than my ancestors.’”

1 Kings 19:4 (NIV)

Elijah was a prophet who had just experienced a huge victory on Mount Carmel, proving God’s power over false idols. And yet, right after this incredible high, he ran into the wilderness, exhausted and afraid. He felt so alone that he wanted to give up.

As moms, we can relate to that crash after a big moment — the day after the birthday party you planned, the week after finishing a big project at work, the season of caring for a sick child. Loneliness can sneak in when our strength runs out. But just like with Elijah, God met him where he was. He didn’t scold him. Instead, He provided food, rest and gentle encouragement.

David’s loneliness

“I cry aloud to the Lord; I lift up my voice to the Lord for mercy. I pour out before him my complaint; before him I tell my trouble. When my spirit grows faint within me, it is you who watch over my way. In the path where I walk people have hidden a snare for me. Look and see, there is no one at my right hand; no one is concerned for me. I have no refuge; no one cares for my life.”

Psalm 142:1–4 (NIV)

David knew what it was to be surrounded by people and still feel utterly alone. In many of his Psalms, we hear the raw honesty of his prayers. He admitted when he was hurting and poured out his soul to God.

I remember in the early days of motherhood feeling like I was drowning. And I remember wondering if anyone would even notice if I did.

Because that’s life and the loneliness that can be part of motherhood. David understood this feeling: “no one is concerned for me…no one cares for my life.”

But, he also knew one of the best ways to get through a season like this was complete honesty with God. God’s love is bigger than our complaints and hurts. He already knows what we’re feeling; being honest with Him keeps our relationship strong.

We can be honest about such things as loneliness, frustration, questions and hurt. We don’t have to pretty things up for God. We just have to show up.

Paul’s loneliness

“At my first defense, no one came to my support, but everyone deserted me. May it not be held against them. But the Lord stood at my side and gave me strength, so that through me the message might be fully proclaimed and all the Gentiles might hear it. And I was delivered from the lion’s mouth.”

2 Timothy 4:16–17 (NIV)

These words are written by Paul. This is the same Paul who was formerly Saul. He was persecuting Christians and then had an encounter with God when Christ Jesus appeared to him in a bright light and changed his heart completely.

And now he was being persecuted and imprisoned himself for planting churches and preaching the Word of God. Yet, in one of his darkest times, he was deserted. Those around him left him on his own, but the Lord God stayed with him through every moment.

We don’t have to be going on trial to feel like we’ve been deserted. If you’ve ever felt like you didn’t have a friend to call or like you’re carrying motherhood alone, Paul’s words remind us of an unshakable truth: when others walk away, the Lord stands beside us.

Jesus’ loneliness

“Then he said to them, ‘My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with me.’”

Matthew 26:38 (NIV)

Even Jesus felt the sting of loneliness. In His deepest moment of anguish in Gethsemane just before His crucifixion, His closest friends couldn’t stay awake to support Him. He cried out to His Father instead.

And our God of all comfort sent an angel to strengthen and comfort His own Son. Even though the love of Christ for us was so strong He was willing to die for us, He still had a broken heart in His own humanity of knowing what was ahead.

Sometimes we can struggle and feel like nobody understands our pain or situation. And that’s a lonely place to live.

The good news is, though, that Jesus understands it all. He’s been there and felt the sting of abandonment. He promises to never leave you in your hour of need.

A step for your week

This week, follow the example of David and Paul by writing out an honest prayer to God. Tell Him exactly how you’re feeling — no filters, no masks. He already knows your heart, but something shifts in us when we lay it bare before Him.

God’s comfort in lonely seasons

One of the sweetest truths in Scripture is that God doesn’t pull away from us when we’re hurting. In fact, His Word tells us He draws near to us in our brokenness. When moments of loneliness feel heavy, God’s presence brings comfort, peace and hope.

God is close to the brokenhearted

“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”

Psalm 34:18 (NIV)

When we are in the middle of a hard season, we can feel crushed under a heavy weight that won’t lift. But God’s promises — like this one in Psalm 34 — hold true regardless. He comes closer to us when we need Him most.

God’s unending love is drawn to our lonely hearts. He is right in the middle of the ache.

Our mama hearts can break is so many ways. From a toddler tantrum that leaves you exasperated to a teen making a heart-wrenching decision, the challenges of motherhood can leave us feeling alone and disheartened.

God meets us there, not with judgment, but with compassion. The power of the Holy Spirit can soothe and comfort our broken hearts.

God goes with us

“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.”

Deuteronomy 31:6 (NIV)

These words were first spoken to the Israelites in the Old Testament as they faced uncertainty, but they are just as true for us today. God goes with us. He doesn’t leave us behind or forget us.

Motherhood is full of moments that feel overwhelming — the diagnosis you weren’t expecting, the sleepless nights that stretch into years, the days when you feel like you’re failing. But God’s promise here is unshakable: you don’t face any of it alone.

We can feel the peace of God even in just knowing He won’t leave us or forget about us. No matter what is going on and what we are facing, He is right there with us.

God gives peace in His presence

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”

Joshua 1:9 (NIV)

This is a similar verse to the one before. Again, the Israelites need encouragement to walk into God’s promised land. And, again, God is provided it for them.

Discouragement and loneliness often go hand-in-hand. I’ve struggled with both in my own life. They’re the quiet voice saying, “You’re not enough. You’re not on your own. Nobody wants to hear what you have to say.”

But, the love of God speaks differently: “Be strong. Be courageous. I am with you.”

When I’ve walked through seasons of discouragement, this verse has reminded me to lean into God’s presence instead of my own feelings. Feelings come and go, but His presence is steady. And I’m so incredibly thankful for that.

The Holy Spirit is our Comforter

“And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever—the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you. I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you.”

John 14:16–18 (NIV)

In the New Testament, after Jesus’ death and resurrection, He promises that we’ll never be left alone. His promise to leave a comforter for His disciples hold true today for us as well.

Even in the loneliest moments — when the house is quiet, or when it feels like no one understands — His Spirit is with you.

You are not abandoned. You are not unseen. The Spirit of God Himself is your comforter, your advocate and your strength. He is our helper fit for every part of our lives.

A step for your week

When loneliness feels heavy this week, pause for just a minute. Take a deep breath and whisper, “God, thank You that You are with me right now.”

It doesn’t have to be fancy. That simple reminder can shift your heart back toward His presence.

Godly friendships in seasons of loneliness

While God’s presence is always with us, He also designed us to live in community. We weren’t meant to do life alone.

Friendship doesn’t always come easily in the busy years of motherhood, but these Bible verses about friendship and loneliness remind us how life-giving it can be to spend time with God’s people.

Two are better than one

“Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up.”

Ecclesiastes 4:9–10 (NIV)

Motherhood has plenty of days where we fall — whether it’s emotionally, spiritually or just plain physically after chasing little ones. Having a Godly friend to help us back up makes the load lighter.

One thing I’ve learned is that often we have to be intentional about friendships. We can’t expect others to always know when we need them or keep pursuing us as friends when we give nothing back.

From a casual friend to a best friend, finding little ways to stay in contact can make a big difference in seasons like this. I’ve been encouraged by a text from a friend saying she was praying for me or by having 20 minutes to chat with a friend unexpectedly.

God reminds us that we really do need each other, especially when loneliness hits.

A friend who loves at all times

“A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.”

Proverbs 17:17 (NIV)

True friends don’t disappear when life gets messy. They’re the ones who walk with us through sleepless nights, unexpected diagnoses or just the never-ending laundry piles.

As moms, it’s easy to think we don’t have time for friendships. But sometimes friendship isn’t about grand outings or long phone calls; it’s about showing up in small ways. A quick message, a handwritten note or a shared laugh can be the lifeline that reminds another mom she’s not alone.

For example, after a friend of mine had a baby, I spent time at her house, playing with her older children and washing her dishes. It was little, small stuff. But recently she mentioned this to me as something she’s always remembered even now seven years later.

Sometimes just being God’s hands and feet on earth can make a big difference. And serving others with good cheer can also bring hope and healing to our own hearts.

Spurring each other on

“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another — and all the more as you see the Day approaching.”

Hebrews 10:24–25 (NIV)

Motherhood can be isolating, but the Bible calls us to stay connected. We need encouragement, and we’re also called to be encouragers.

It doesn’t mean we have to lead a Bible study or host big gatherings in our own home. Sometimes it means joining a local mom group, inviting a friend for coffee or even connecting on social media where faith and encouragement are at the center. When we show up for one another, we reflect God’s love in powerful ways.

It can even be taking a moment in the bathroom at Target to distract a fussy baby getting his diaper changed to give his mama just a moment of comfort and fellowship.

A step for your week

This week, ask God to bring one person to mind who may need encouragement. Then reach out. Send a quick text, drop off a note or simply say, “I’m thinking of you today.”

That one small act could be exactly what she needs to know she’s not alone.

Hope in God’s presence when you feel lonely

Loneliness can feel like it will last forever. But the truth is, our present feelings don’t have the final word. God’s promises remind us that He has a bigger story for our lives filled with His presence, peace and everlasting hope.

God is our portion forever

“Yet I am always with you; you hold me by my right hand. You guide me with your counsel, and afterward you will take me into glory. Whom have I in heaven but you? And earth has nothing I desire besides you. My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.”

Psalm 73:23–26 (NIV)

Sometimes what we need most in the midst of lonely seasons and difficult times is a reminder that God is with us now and forever. Because while God is our Savior, He is also our best friend.

The end of this passage is perfect for the exhaustion and heartache of motherhood. I look back now at the days after my second child was born and still cannot explain how I survived it physically other than God. He strengthened my heart and my body.

We can rest knowing God’s presence will carry us not just today, but forever.

Nothing can separate us from God’s love

“For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

Romans 8:38–39 (NIV)

Loneliness tries to convince us that we are unloved and unwanted. Because, let’s be frank, sometimes our feelings lie to us.

But Scripture is clear: absolutely nothing can separate us from God’s love. Not our mistakes, not our circumstances, not even our feelings of isolation.

As moms, when our hearts ache for connection, this promise reassures us that we are held by a love that never lets go.

One day God’s presence will wipe away every tear

“And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, ‘Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.’”

Revelation 21:3–4 (NIV)

This is the ultimate hope we cling to: a future where loneliness, grief and sorrow are no more. A day is coming when every tear will be wiped away by the very hand of God.

That truth doesn’t erase the pain of loneliness now, but it anchors us in hope. We can face today knowing that eternity with Him is secure — and in that eternity, we’ll never know loneliness again.

A step for your week

Write down one verse of hope (maybe Romans 8:38–39 or Revelation 21:4) and place it somewhere you’ll see it daily. Let it be a reminder that no matter what today holds, God’s presence is your forever promise.

You are never truly alone

Loneliness often shows up in motherhood. It can feel overwhelming to carry so much responsibility while wondering if anyone really sees you. But the good news of Scripture is this: you are never truly alone.

From Hagar in the wilderness to David in the caves, from Paul in prison to Jesus in the garden — God’s presence was there in their loneliness, and His presence is with you in yours. The same God who promises to never leave or forsake His children walks beside you in the messy, beautiful, exhausting, joy-filled journey of motherhood.

If loneliness has been whispering that you’re unseen or forgotten, let God’s Word whisper something different: you are loved, you are noticed and you are never abandoned.

To help you dive deeper into these truths, I created a free reading plan of Bible verses about loneliness. It’s designed especially for moms like you who need encouragement in this season. You can grab your copy here:

And if you’re longing for community, I’d love to invite you to join us in the Christian Moms with Grace Facebook group. It’s a space for encouragement, prayer and connection with other moms who understand the ups and downs of faith-filled motherhood.

You don’t have to walk this road alone. God is with you, and we’d love to walk alongside you, too.

Mama, when the quiet moments feel heavy or the days feel isolating, take heart: your Father in heaven sees you, knows you and holds you close.