I’m feeling kind of blah in my relationship with God right now. I’m still going to church, reading my Bible, praying, and spending time with people, but I feel increasingly depleted. I’m not sure how long I can keep this up. Any help is appreciated.
Sincerely, Spiritually Stuck
Dear Spiritually Stuck,
I hear you. What you’re experiencing is such a normal part of the human experience—and it’s no different in our relationship with God. Just like seasons in nature, our relationships—whether with friends, spouses, or even God—go through cycles. There are times of closeness and times when we feel more distant.
The Bible reflects this pattern again and again. Look at Peter—one moment, he’s stepping out in faith to walk on water and declaring his unwavering love for Jesus, and the next, he’s denying Him out of fear.
1. Give Yourself Grace
First, I’d encourage you to be kind to yourself. Feeling disconnected doesn’t mean God has abandoned you, nor does it mean you’ve failed in your faith. Shame magnifies separation, but it doesn’t reflect the truth.
Instead of letting shame lead to anxiety, remind yourself:
👉 This is a season. It’s okay. My feelings don’t change God’s love for me or His presence with me.
2. Knowing God vs. Knowing About God
One common misconception I’ve seen is equating knowing about God with knowing God.
✅ Reading your Bible, praying, and attending church are invaluable tools—but they’re not the ultimate goal.
✅ These things are meant to deepen your relationship with Him—not replace it.
✅ The goal isn’t to accumulate knowledge—it’s connection, intimacy, and relationship.
There’s a beautiful Hebrew word, yada, which means “to know.” But it’s not just an intellectual knowing—it’s deeply experiential and relational. In Scripture, yada is the word used to describe how Adam knew Eve after they consummated their marriage. It’s not about facts—it’s about intimacy.
This is the kind of relationship God desires with us—a personal, dynamic, and alive connection.
3. Shift from “Doing” to “Being”
When I’ve found myself in spiritual blah seasons, I’ve realized the need to simplify.
Sometimes, the busyness of obligations—even good ones—can clutter our connection with God.
🛑 If your faith feels like an exhausting to-do list, it may be time to step back and refocus.
Try this:
🔹 Instead of just reading the Bible—talk to God about what you’re reading.
🔹 Instead of praying out of routine—sit in silence and just be with Him.
🔹 Instead of trying to “do all the right things”—imagine God holding your hand, looking at you with love, and reminding you that He’s not going anywhere.
This approach reminds me of advice I often give to couples in counseling. When their relationship feels distant, I encourage them to stop focusing on doing all the “right” things and instead prioritize reconnection.
Your relationship with God works the same way. When you nurture the connection, the passion and intimacy will naturally follow.
4. Try a New Way to Connect
One tool that has helped me through many “blah” seasons in my faith is Christian fiction!
Reading about biblical characters in real, emotional, human experiences can stir something in your heart in a way that traditional Bible study doesn’t always do. If you’re not sure where to start, I recommend Francine Rivers and Mesu Andrews—two of my favorite authors!
5. Get Back to Basics
Jesus said,
📖 “My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” (Matthew 11:30)
If your faith starts to feel like a heavy obligation rather than a source of joy and peace, it’s a sign to let God refresh your soul.
Let your service flow out of your relationship with Him, rather than trying to make your relationship flow from your service.
Final Encouragement
This season may feel challenging, but it can also be an opportunity for renewal and growth.
God is patient, kind, and ready to meet you exactly where you are.
Lean into Him—not out of duty, but out of desire.
You’re not alone in this.
Praying for peace, renewal, and the joy of connection to flood your journey.
All for Him, Ellen
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