What is more important than a real and personal love relationship with God? The closer we get to Him, the better we get to know Him. But what if you’re doing everything right and you still feel distant from Him? What if you’re reading the Scripture every day, praying, and fasting, but God still feels so far away?
As much as Jesus is Lord, King, and Shepherd, Jesus also said, “I no longer call you servants, because a servant doesn’t know his master’s business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you.” John 15:15
What we can understand from this verse is that there was a degree of separation between us and the Father, but thanks to Jesus, we can now directly go to God. Remember that in the Old Testament, the way God spoke to his people was through a leader—a prophet, a priest, or a king. Now, thanks to Jesus, we have the Holy Spirit.
So, how can we overcome the blockage that causes us to feel isolated from God? And how can we feel more connected?
Understand That God Is Always With You
Even when you don’t feel Him, know that God is there. The feeling that you have been separated or removed from His presence is more common than you think, especially for those Christians who have been walking with Him for some time. Learn to trust the promise of God.
“The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” Deuteronomy 31:8
The key to a healthy relationship is to keep the lines of communication open. Any relationship, even one with the divine, requires effort.
Keep A Written Record of God’s Work In Your Life
Prayer journaling has changed my life. Specifically, when it comes to praying for others. When I go back and circle the answered prayers, I am overwhelmed with gratitude.
From my experience, gratitude has this supernatural way of enhancing your spiritual life. It helps to keep your mind focused on what is right, what is true, what is pure, what is holy, and what is praiseworthy (Philippians 4:8).
Seeing with my own eyes as I acknowledge what God is doing makes Him feel very real to me. And if I were honest, being thankful is one of the most powerful feelings God has given us. Paying attention to how God works or where He is at work around you allows you to see how God is present and actively working in your life.
“You are my witnesses,” declares the Lord, “and my servant whom I have chosen, so that you may know and believe me and understand that I am he.” Isaiah 43:10
Take Part In The Great Commission
As Christians, we are called to share the gospel of Jesus Christ. I can’t tell you how many times people were encouraged by stories of how God worked in the lives of others.
Storytelling is a powerful way to connect with people because it affects behavior and emotion. It also gives us hope. We may not all be preachers, but in one way or another, we are all storytellers. Our lives are a testament to God’s grace and mercy.
I think of Jesus and how he used parables to tell people who listened to him about the Kingdom of God and the will of his Father.
“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Matthew 28:19-20
Honor Another Through Service
Being around fellow believers can encourage you in your walk with God. God speaks to us through the Holy Spirit, through Scripture, through the church, through circumstances, and sometimes through other believers.
Fellowship and being part of a church community are integral parts of the Christian life. The way we demonstrate the love of Christ is by helping others in need.
“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” 1 Peter 4:10
Each of us has been given a gift or talent that we can use to help others. When you serve, you share with others the same love Christ has shared with you. Your service is a form of worship and a demonstration of your faith. Remember that the fruits of the Spirit come from the overflow of God’s love.
So, if you ever feel lonely, anxious, or depressed again, or if you feel like you miss being in the presence of God, remember that He is always with you. His spirit lives inside you. You have been blessed with the gift to pray for and serve others. And that sharing your encounters with Him with others and creating opportunities for them to experience Him are all ways that you can honor Him and draw nearer to Him.
I’d like to hear from you in the comments below about how you would encourage those struggling with isolation or loneliness to draw close to God.