Kim Harvey Brannan
Embrace vulnerability in prayer.
When I feel far away from God, the natural response is to withdraw and avoid prayer altogether. It’s as if I think God doesn’t want to hear from me in my moments of doubt or frustration. However, I have come to learn that embracing vulnerability in prayer is a powerful way to bridge the gap and rebuild my connection with Him.
During times of feeling out of touch with God, I don’t hold back in my prayers. I acknowledge my feelings of frustration, loneliness, and doubt. Instead of trying to put on a facade of faith or pretending everything is fine, I open my heart to God and share my struggles and uncertainties. I find solace in knowing that God is a loving and compassionate Father who understands my human frailty. He doesn’t expect me to have it all together; rather, He invites me to come as I am.
Practice gratitude and reflection.
Another strategy that has helped me overcome feelings of disconnection with God is the practice of gratitude and reflection. It’s easy to focus on what I don’t have or what is going wrong in my life, which can further contribute to the sense of distance from God. However, the Apostle Paul encourages believers in (1 Thessalonians 5:18) to “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”
Incorporating gratitude into my daily life has been a powerful way to counteract feelings of separation from God. Instead of dwelling on what I lack, I take time each day to reflect on the blessings in my life, both big and small. I cultivate an attitude of gratitude, thanking God for His presence, even when it may feel elusive.
The Bible is often referred to as God’s love letter to humanity. Engaging in reading Scripture and meditating upon its truths has been instrumental in helping me overcome feelings of spiritual dryness and reconnect with God.
I have discovered that reading God’s Word is not just an intellectual exercise but a transformative encounter with the living God. As I dive into the wisdom and teachings of Scripture, I seek guidance and inspiration for my life’s journey. The Bible is filled with promises, wisdom, and encouragement that speak directly to my heart.
To complement my reading, I also set aside time for quiet meditation. This invites my mind and heart to be still in God’s presence. It is a time of listening and being receptive to God’s voice speaking to my heart. In these moments of stillness, I open myself up to divine revelation and a deeper understanding of God’s ways. I begin to see His hand at work in my daily life, even during challenges.
Seek community and fellowship.
During challenging spiritual times, seeking community and fellowship can provide much-needed comfort and inspiration. As Christians, we are called to be part of a body of believers, a spiritual community. The apostle Paul beautifully illustrates the significance of Christian fellowship in (1 Corinthians 12), where he likens the church to a body with different parts working together in unity.
Being part of a spiritual community offers opportunities for shared prayer, worship, and mutual encouragement. It reminds me that I am not alone in my spiritual journey and that others have faced similar struggles with feeling out of touch with God. Together, we find strength and solace, reaffirming our faith in God’s presence.
