Understanding Spiritual Dryness

Every Christian, no matter how strong their faith, will experience seasons of spiritual dryness. Sometimes, these dry seasons are triggered by difficult circumstances in our lives or those close to us. Other times, we gradually drift into a place where we feel distant from God, even while continuing to go through the motions—attending church, serving, and reading Scripture.

I have personally walked through seasons where my spiritual life felt like a desert. Despite my best efforts, I felt disconnected from God, as though my prayers were unheard and my devotion was empty. But after years of following Christ, I’ve come to understand something important:

Our spiritual dry spells do not change God’s love for us.

If you are feeling distant from God right now, take heart. Your feelings do not define your relationship with Him. Even when He feels far away, He has not left you. Hebrews 13:5 reminds us of this truth:

“Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.”

While only the Holy Spirit can truly refresh our souls, there are intentional steps we can take to draw near to God and allow Him to renew our faith.

6 Steps to Navigating a Spiritual Dry Season

1. Cling to God’s Word

When our faith feels weak, Scripture becomes our anchor. Psalm 119:105 reminds us:

“Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.”

During a dry season, our emotions may try to convince us that God is distant, but truth is not based on feelings. The Bible serves as a compass, pointing us to who God is and what He says about us, regardless of our emotions.

Here’s a foundational truth to hold onto:

The presence of God has not left you.

Immerse yourself in Scripture, even when you don’t feel like it. His Word has the power to transform our minds and refresh our hearts.

2. Lean into Prayer

Prayer can feel difficult in a dry season. It may seem like your words fall flat or that God is silent. But even when prayer feels hard, it is one of the most powerful ways to draw closer to Him.

Jesus Himself turned to prayer in the wilderness (Matthew 4:1-11). Prayer is not just about asking for things—it is about cultivating intimacy with God.

Even if all you can do is sit in His presence or pray a simple, honest prayer—keep praying. God is listening.

3. Foster Community

Spiritual dryness often tempts us to isolate ourselves, but this is the time when we need Christian community the most.

Surround yourself with believers who encourage your faith. Sometimes, simply spending time with Christian friends, engaging in meaningful conversations, or worshiping together can reignite your passion for God.

The Israelites journeyed through the desert together, relying on each other for strength and encouragement. We were never meant to walk through dry seasons alone.

4. Trust in God’s Promises

When life feels dry and uncertain, we need to hold onto God’s unshakable promises.

Jeremiah 29:11 reminds us:

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

Even when circumstances feel uncertain, God’s promises remain constant and true. His faithfulness does not depend on our emotions. He is working, even when we cannot see or feel it.

Romans 8:28 reassures us:

“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”

5. Engage in Spiritual Disciplines

Sometimes, when we feel distant from God, the best thing we can do is continue to walk in obedience. Spiritual disciplines—like worship, fasting, solitude, and journaling—help refocus our hearts.

Even if it feels like you’re going through the motions, keep pursuing Him. The dry season will not last forever.

Jesus spoke of “living water”, and it is often in our thirstiest moments that we recognize our deep need for Him.

6. Seek Deeper Understanding

A spiritual dry season is not wasted. God may be using this time to refine your character, strengthen your faith, or prepare you for a new season of growth.

James 1:2-4 encourages us:

“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”

Often, spiritual dryness is the very thing that leads us into a deeper relationship with God.

Bonus: Free Printable – 26 Ideas to Stir Up Your Affection for the Lord

If you are struggling with spiritual dryness, I have created a free printable resource featuring 26 simple yet powerful activities to help you reignite your passion for God.

This guide includes:
✔ Practical ways to reconnect with God
✔ Creative ideas to refresh your faith
✔ Simple steps to deepen your relationship with Him

Here are just a few ideas from the list:

• Start a gratitude journal to record God’s blessings
• Take a prayer walk and spend time in nature
• Create a worship playlist and let music fill your home
• Find a routine for reading your Bible that you genuinely look forward to
• Attend a worship service or spend time with other believers

These ideas are not a formula, but rather inspiration to help you lean into your relationship with God, even in the hard moments.

Download the Free Printable Here

Final Encouragement

If you are in a spiritual dry season, take heart. You are not alone.

God is still with you, still working, and still faithful. The desert will not last forever. Keep seeking Him. Keep trusting His promises. Keep walking in faith.

And remember, His love for you has never wavered.