When God Feels Far Away - Part One

Recently, a person was sharing with me about feeling distant or disconnected from the Lord. Even when we feel distant from God, He has not left us. God invites us to draw near and promises to meet us there. So, I would like to share a two-part reflection and encouragement for us.

4 Possible Causes of Feeling Distant from God:

1. Busyness and weariness. Life’s pressures wear us down, and we stop spending time with God. In Matthew 11:28: Jesus says, “Come to me, all you who are weary…”

2. Neglecting Daily Fellowship. Our relationship with God is like any relationship—without connection, it feels cold. Reignite prayer, worship, and time in the Word, even if it starts small.

3. Unconfessed Sin or Shame. Sin creates a barrier—not because God stops loving us, but because guilt drives us away. 1 John 1:9 exhorts us, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us…”

4. Trials and Disappointments. When God doesn’t answer how or when we expect, we may feel abandoned. But remember: Silence is not absence.

Some Scriptures to Consider:

1. James 4:8

James 4:8, “Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.” God always responds to a sincere heart. Our feelings may shift, but God's faithfulness does not. Taking a step toward God—through prayer, worship, or confession—reopens the connection.

2. Psalm 13:1–2

Psalm 13:1–2, “How long, O LORD? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me? How long must I take counsel in my soul and have sorrow in my heart all the day? How long shall my enemy be exalted over me? King David, a man after God's own heart, experienced distance too. The Psalms show us it's okay to be honest with God about how we feel. God can handle our doubt, our dryness, and our questions.

3. Isaiah 59:2

Isaiah 59:2, “but your iniquities have made a separation between you and your God, and your sins have hidden his face from you so that he does not hear.” Sometimes distance is due to unconfessed sin. Not all spiritual dryness comes from sin, but when it does, repentance restores fellowship. God’s mercy is always available.

PART TWO - I WILL SHARE SOME ACTION STEPS WE CAN TAKE. Until then, how can I pray for you? Thank you for praying for me. You are not alone!