Feeling Lost and Alone in a New Place? Finding Hope in Psalm 13
I recently moved to a new country, expecting challenges like culture shock and homesickness. But I did not anticipate the deep, lingering ache of feeling lost and alone. I had a faithful church, a loving husband, and kind friends—yet, despite all that, an unshakable emptiness settled in my heart. Why?
I was surrounded by unfamiliar accents, cultural misunderstandings, and the struggle of navigating something as simple as a trip to the grocery store. Each was a constant reminder that I didn’t belong here. This ache settled deeply within me, and I still wrestle with it today. I trust that God has placed me here for a purpose, yet I can’t help but wonder—when will the struggle to adapt ease? How much longer will I feel alone?
In Psalm 13, David cried out, “How long, O Lord? Will you forget me forever?” (v. 1). He didn’t doubt God’s existence, but he did feel abandoned—lost in the depths of his distress.
The contrast in this psalm is beautiful. At first, David is overcome with doubt, pleading for answers (vv. 1-2). Soon, though, he prays, “Enlighten my eyes.” (v. 3). He longs for wisdom and a renewed awareness of his salvation. Finally, David recalls the Lord’s kindness:
“I have trusted in Your mercy; my heart shall rejoice in Your salvation. I will sing to the Lord, because He has dealt bountifully with me.” (vv. 5-6).
You may not understand why God has placed you where He has or why you feel stuck and alone. But what you can know and rest assured in—deep in your heart—is the salvation you’ve received through Jesus Christ. His death and resurrection have brought us true reconciliation, and that alone is the source of our joy in moments of loneliness, doubt, and fear.
This is what David understood. His circumstances didn’t change, but the posture of his heart did. This renewal of his mind led him to rejoice and sing to the Lord.
The same is true for us, sister. In moments of despair, a right view of our salvation brings fresh hope and joy, stirring our souls to praise our Lord and Savior. So lift your eyes, cling to His promises, and let your heart sing—because He is faithful, and He is with you. (Rom. 5:13, 1 Pt. 1:8).
Meet the Author
Ashleigh Kusuma
Ashleigh traded the cornfields of Illinois for the coastal mountains of Bangor, Wales, after getting married last summer. This big life change led her and her husband to join their local church where they’ve found a faithful community. Ashleigh started her Master’s degree in English and Creative Writing in the fall, exploring human emotions and faith through her writing.
When she’s not writing essays or updating her blog, @forhispeople_ , she’s pouring coffee at her local cafe, chatting with the locals. She loves to bake, crochet, and go on long walks—especially when the sun is shining and daffodils are in bloom. Although she’s still adjusting to Welsh weather, she’s learned to appreciate rainy days with a cup of tea in one hand, and a good book in the other. Through her writing and other hobbies, she hopes to bring warmth and encouragement to those around her.
