Faith is a journey filled with peaks and valleys.
Some seasons feel vibrant and full of Yahweh’s presence, while others feel barren and dry.
If you’ve ever found yourself struggling to feel God, you’re not alone.
A reader recently shared their struggle:
Growing up in a Christian home, he always believed in God. But over the years, disappointment, hardship, and pain made faith feel distant. He found himself wrestling with a question someone asked him: “What’s the point of a Christian life?”
Even though he encouraged that person to hold onto faith, he couldn’t shake the question himself. And he’s wondering—do others feel this way too?
The answer is yes.
Many believers experience spiritual dryness or seasons of doubt, even those who have walked with Yahshua for decades.
It doesn’t mean you’re losing faith. It means you’re human.
Why Do We Struggle to Feel God?
- Trials and Suffering – Pain can make it harder to recognize Yahweh’s presence. When life feels overwhelming, it’s easy to wonder where He is. But He has not left you.
- Spiritual Fatigue – Sometimes, going through the motions of faith without truly connecting can make Yahweh feel distant. Prayers may seem empty, and worship may feel routine.
- Unrealistic Expectations – Many Christians expect to always feel God’s presence, but faith isn’t about feelings. It’s about trust. Yahweh works even when we don’t perceive Him.
- The Testing of Faith – Yahweh allows seasons of dryness to refine and strengthen our faith. These moments push us to seek Him beyond emotions and circumstances.
What Can You Do When God Feels Distant?
- Be Honest with Yahweh – Pour out your heart to Him. The psalmist often cried out, “Why, O Yahweh, do You stand far off? Why do You hide Yourself in times of trouble?” (Psalm 10:1). Being real with God is part of deepening your relationship with Him.
- Return to Scripture – Feelings can deceive, but Yahweh’s Word remains true. Meditate on verses that remind you of His faithfulness, like Isaiah 41:10: “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God.”
- Seek Fellowship – You may hesitate to share your struggle with family or friends, but know this: you’re not alone. Other believers have been through this. Find a trusted friend, mentor, or community that can encourage you.
- Worship Anyway – Even when you don’t feel like it, choose to praise Yahweh. Worship shifts our focus from our problems to His greatness. Paul and Silas worshiped in prison (Acts 16:25), and Yahweh moved powerfully.
- Remember That Faith is More Than Feelings – Faith isn’t just about emotional highs. It’s about choosing to trust Yahweh even in the silence. Job declared, “Though He slay me, yet will I trust in Him.” (Job 13:15).
The Point of a Christian Life
So, what’s the point of living a Christian life when struggles make Yahweh feel distant? The answer is simple yet profound: because He is still God. Because He loves you. Because life with Him is real, even when we can’t feel it.
Yahshua Himself cried out on the cross, “My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?” (Matthew 27:46). Yet, even in that moment, Yahweh was working out the greatest victory—our salvation.
If you’re struggling to feel Yahweh, don’t give up. Keep seeking, keep trusting, and keep walking in faith. He is there, even in the silence.
