I had a powerful experience a few years ago just before the construction of the Gilbert Arizona temple commenced. We had a stake gathering of youth in celebration of the new temple being built. There were many youth leaders there, and part of the experience was for the youth to walk to the temple grounds along a path that was lined by many leaders. We were to be quiet as the youth walked toward the temple grounds.

As I observed the youth participate in this experience, the Spirit taught me something. Most of the youth walked by me in groups of varying sizes, but occasionally there was a young man or woman walking alone. As I observed one young man in particular walking alone, the Spirit said to me, “this is one of the vital  reasons for the temple: you will never be alone.” This powerful truth left a deep impression on me. I am so grateful that a merciful Heavenly Father does not want us to be lonely, abandoned, isolated or alone. God wants you to feel His presence, reassurance, companionship and love.

I believe all of us have tasted and felt loneliness. Loneliness is a powerful feeling, and its effects can be a master teacher in our lives. In the moments when we are the most alone, may we be most aware of the One who is always there. As a son or daughter of God, you must remember that you are not ever really alone; you have the greatest companion there is with the Lord, Jesus Christ by your side. One of His great promises is, “And whoso receiveth you, there I will be also, for I will go before your face. I will be on your right hand and on your left, and my Spirit shall be in your hearts, and mine angels round about you, to bear you up” (D&C 84:88).

In times when you feel alone, afraid, or abandoned, I pray you will remember this verse: “Behold, the kingdom is yours. And behold, and lo, I am with the faithful always. Even so. Amen” (D&C 62:9). This heart-warming promise can carry you during those periods of loneliness in life. The Lord will be there for you to lift, comfort, bless, reassure, succor, and speak peace to your soul.

Knowing the pain of loneliness surely strengthens the message of the gospel of Jesus
Christ because He has prepared a way for us to always feel loved and accompanied. Many of God’s children are alone in so many ways; they have been without hope, without the truth, without direction, without the gift of the Holy Ghost, without companionship, and without peace. The message of the gospel of Jesus Christ illuminates the eyes of the children of God to recognize that God is right there waiting to bring relief to their sorrows and despair. The promise of the gospel of Jesus Christ is that your friend, Savior and Redeemer and will be with you always.