Over the years I suppose I’ve received hundreds of letters like yours—because you’re right: a city can be a very lonely place. Like you, many have no family nearby, and often seem focused only on themselves. In his loneliness the writer of one of the Psalms said, “I am … like an owl among the ruins. I lie awake; I have become like a bird alone on a roof” (Psalm 102:6-7).

What should you do? First, let me tell you what I hope you won’t do: I hope you won’t seek friendship in the wrong places, or in the wrong ways. Popular television programs may give the impression that living in a big city is fun, consisting mainly of a continuous round of singles bars and casual sexual encounters. But nothing could be more meaningless or empty. The Bible says, “Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers” (Psalm 1:1).

Instead, I urge you first of all to realize that you are not really alone—not if you know Jesus Christ. If you have never done so, invite Him to come into your life—and He will. Then know that He is with you every moment of the day. As the old saying goes, He is only a prayer away.

Then ask Him to lead you to a church where Christ is preached and taught. Not only will you grow in your faith, but you’ll also meet others your age who can encourage you and become your friends.