What do you do when you don’t feel like being with God? For whatever reason, if you’re feeling distance in your spirit, your emotions are out of whack, or your circumstances are stressful, you may feel like you can’t be with God. Your heart is not in the right posture for prayer, or worship, or to serve.
Deep down inside, you want to obey Him. You want to honor Him, but you just can’t bring yourself to do it. So, what do you do with your good intentions when you’re failing to live up to them?
If you’ve been in a place like that or you’re currently living in that space where the conviction is there and it is strong, but your emotions and circumstances won’t allow you to go in and be present with God, believe me when I say that it is better for you to yield to the Holy Spirit.
We’ve all had those moments where the spirit is willing but the flesh is weak (Matthew 26:41). God understands. For Christians, devotion involves a heartfelt connection to God, marked by faith, love, and obedience. It’s about maintaining a continuous relationship that transcends mere ritualistic acts.
But if we’re honest, there are moments when that fervor wanes and we struggle to stay devoted. So, how do we reignite the flame of faith when you’re just not feeling it?
Understanding What It Means To Be Devoted To God
Devotion is rooted in love and faith. It’s about surrendering one’s will and desires to align with God’s purpose. The Bible emphasizes the importance of devotion, urging believers to “love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.” Matthew 22:37 NIV.
This love is not contingent upon fleeting emotions but is a conscious choice to prioritize God above all else. When you choose God regardless of how you feel or what is happening around you, it shows that you are willing to obey God and move forward faithfully.
It’s easy to get sidetracked from your spiritual priorities. And sometimes, in seasons of dryness, we feel distant from God, which can make devotion feel like a chore. Perhaps it’s difficult circumstances that shake your faith, causing you to doubt, compare, or become discouraged. But comparing your faith journey to that of other believers will only cause you to feel a sense of inadequacy. Despite these challenges, it is still possible for you to nurture your relationship with God in a sustainable way.
So, here are a few practical tips on how you can ensure you spend time with God and stay devoted even when you don’t feel like it.
Practical Ways to Ensure Time with God
Time for God is essential if you want a meaningful relationship with Him. Your commitment to spending time with Him daily and your consistency indicate your desire to commune with Him.
Set Aside Dedicated Time
“Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house, and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed.” Mark 1:35 NIV
Jesus prioritized intimate communion with God the Father. Just as you would for any other important commitment, treat this time as sacred and make it non-negotiable.
Remove all distractions that will disrupt your focus during this time, and create an atmosphere that is conducive to prayer and reflection. Remember to be flexible with your format, as some days may need extended time for prayer or meditation.
Allocate A Sacred Space
“But when you pray, go into your room, close the door, and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.” Matthew 6:6 NIV
There is nothing more satisfying than a quiet corner of the house where you can sit down and enjoy a warm beverage while you read the Word of God. The purpose of this designated corner or room for prayer and reflection is so that you feel at home to worship and free of distractions.
When seeking the presence of God, you should be intentional. Keep this space clutter-free. A clean environment promotes clarity and calmness, allowing you to experience deeper spiritual engagement.
Utilize Devotional Resources
“Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” Psalms 119:105 NIV
The Word of God serves as a foundational resource for spiritual growth and guidance. Engaging with devotional books, podcasts, or apps that are biblically grounded can help illuminate scripture and provide spiritual nourishment and inspiration.
The key is to become curious. Incorporate these resources into your daily or weekly meetings and engage with different types of content, including Bible studies, sermons, testimonies, and guided prayers. Take time to reflect on your insights and learn how to practically apply them to your life.
Keep a Prayer Journal
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7 NIV
We can always look to God for encouragement or guidance in all situations. By dedicating time each day or each week to write down your prayers, thoughts, and reflections, you’re able to document your conversations with God. In these conversations, you should express your joys, concerns, and gratitude.
Be sure to review your journal entries so that you can observe patterns, growth, and areas of spiritual development. There is no such thing as cookie-cutter faith. It’s different for everyone. Use these reflections as a tool for self-examination and spiritual assessment.
Staying In It When You Don’t Feel Like It
You will experience growth whenever you pray, study your Bible, worship, and fast. Even when it feels mechanical, you can expect to encounter God. Be patient and honest.
When you’re transparent about your emotions or your struggles, believe that God understands our human frailty and still desires a relationship with us. A relationship with God is built on trust. A good way to move past that feeling of being stuck or empty is by reflecting on His goodness and faithfulness.
By establishing regular spiritual discipline, you build a firm foundation for your relationship with God. This discipline will help you overcome any blockage.
Commit To Spiritual Discipline
“Have nothing to do with godless myths and old wives’ tales; rather, train yourself to be godly. For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come.” 1 Timothy 4:7-8 NIV
Just as physical training is valuable, committing to spiritual discipline yields eternal benefits and deepens our relationship with God. Prayer is not just about making requests but also listening to the voice of God. Set aside time to talk with Him and align your heart with His.
Design a system to study His word, seek understanding, and apply His teachings to your life. Worship is also more than just a Sunday activity. Cultivate a heart of worship and a lifestyle that honors God in all areas. Occasionally, fast to grow your self-control and increase your spiritual sensitivity by relying on God to provide for you.
Surround Yourself With Fellow Believers
“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” Hebrews 10:24–25 NIV
Being Christian is so much better when we have friends and family to share it with. This is why the Bible encourages us to seek out community. Fellow believers can uplift and inspire you. They can be a source of encouragement during difficult times, and they’re there to celebrate victories with you.
Having Christian friends who hold you accountable in your walk with God helps to keep you aligned with biblical values and principles. Sharing prayer requests and praying together with others also strengthens faith and fosters a sense of unity.
Be Honest In Prayer
“Trust in him at all times, you people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge.” Psalms 62:8 NIV
An authentic relationship with God can only thrive if there is transparency. Don’t be afraid to share your joys, fears, doubts, and struggles openly with Him. Be honest about areas where you fall short and seek His forgiveness.
When you confess your sins and surrender them to God, know that He offers grace and restoration. So, trust Him with your concerns and acknowledge His sovereignty.
Focus on God’s Faithfulness
“Because of the Lord’s great love, we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” Lamentations 3:22–23 NIV
Remembering God’s faithfulness in the past fuels faith and confidence. Reflect on moments when God intervened, answered prayers, or provided guidance. Share these testimonies with others to magnify God’s goodness.
Foster a heart of gratitude by acknowledging His faithfulness and thanking Him for His blessings and provision in your life. His unwavering love and reliability instill hope and strengthen our resolve to remain devoted to Him, even in challenging times.
In closing, devotion requires intentionality and perseverance. It’s not always about your feelings but about a steadfast commitment to God’s kingdom. When we seek the love of God with our whole being, His grace empowers us to stay devoted. Because of Him, you will be able to endure the ebb and flow of life and enjoy a vibrant, god-centered relationship with Him.