Overcoming Spiritual Dryness: Reigniting Your Passion for God

Have you ever found yourself in a season where God feels distant, prayer feels hollow, and reading Scripture feels like a chore? If so, you’re not alone. Spiritual dryness—those moments when our faith feels stagnant or disconnected—is a common part of the Christian journey. It’s not a sign of failure but an invitation to dig deeper and reignite the passion for God that first captured your heart.

David’s words in Psalm 13 capture this feeling so well. He cries out, “How long, Lord? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me?” (Psalm 13:1). Can you hear the ache in his voice? David wasn’t afraid to admit that he felt abandoned and unseen. Yet, even in his lament, David chose to trust in God’s faithfulness. He ends the Psalm by declaring, “But I trust in your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in your salvation. I will sing the Lord’s praise, for he has been good to me” (Psalm 13:5-6).

I’ve had seasons like David’s, where I wondered if God was even listening. I was reading my Bible and attending church, but something felt off. One morning, as I sat with my coffee, I realized I had been more focused on checking spiritual boxes than truly seeking His presence. That moment became a turning point—not because I had all the answers, but because I surrendered and asked God to meet me in my dryness. Like David, I began to notice small glimpses of His faithfulness. A verse would jump out at me, a friend would offer encouragement, or worship would stir something in my heart again.

If you’re feeling spiritually dry, take heart. David’s story reminds us that it’s okay to bring our frustrations and questions to God. He invites us to pour out our hearts to Him, even when we feel distant. And just like David, we can find hope in His unfailing love

1. Return to Your First Love

In Revelation 2:4-5, Jesus tells the church in Ephesus, “You have forsaken the love you had at first. Consider how far you have fallen! Repent and do the things you did at first.”

Think back to when you first gave your life to Christ. What stirred your heart for Him? Was it worship, prayer, or simply spending time in His Word? Revisit those practices. For me, it was putting on worship music in the quiet of the morning. Slowly, my heart softened, and I began to feel His presence again.

2. Be Honest with God

Psalm 42:11 says, “Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise Him.”

The psalmist’s honesty is a reminder that we don’t have to hide our struggles from God. Tell Him how you’re feeling. Admit that you feel distant. He already knows your heart, and He’s waiting for you to open up. Sometimes, just voicing your frustrations and desires can lead to breakthrough.

3. Make Space for God to Speak

In today’s noisy world, it’s easy to fill every moment with distractions. Spiritual dryness often stems from being too busy to hear God’s still, small voice. Carve out time to sit in silence, away from your phone, your to-do list, and your worries. Ask God to speak, and then listen.

I’ve found that some of my most meaningful encounters with God happen in the simplest moments—walking in the garden, sitting on my porch, or reading one verse slowly instead of rushing through a chapter.

4. Surround Yourself with Encouragement

Proverbs 27:17 says, “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.”

Spiritual dryness often isolates us, but we’re not meant to walk this journey alone. Share your struggle with a trusted friend, pastor, or small group. Sometimes, hearing how God is working in someone else’s life can reignite hope in your own.

5. Serve as an Act of Worship

When we feel distant from God, our instinct is often to withdraw. But sometimes, stepping out in faith and serving others can reconnect us with His heart. Jesus said, “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me” (Matthew 25:40).

Even small acts of kindness—a phone call, a meal for a neighbor, or a word of encouragement—can remind you that God is still working through you, even when you don’t feel it.

6. Be Patient and Trust the Process

Spiritual dryness isn’t a permanent state; it’s a season. Trust that God is with you, even when you don’t feel Him. Isaiah 40:31 reminds us, “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”

Sometimes, God allows these dry seasons to deepen our faith and reliance on Him. Don’t give up. Keep showing up, even when it feels hard. He’s working in ways you can’t yet see.

A Final Word

If you’re in a dry season right now, remember this: God hasn’t abandoned you. He’s closer than you think, and He’s faithful to meet you where you are. Take small steps back toward Him, and trust that He will refresh your spirit in His perfect time.

What has helped you overcome spiritual dryness? Share your story or encourage someone else who might be walking through a similar season.