“Draw near to God and he will draw near to you.” -Jas 4:8

Are you wondering what happened to the fire you used to feel for the Lord?

Perhaps you even feel abandoned or betrayed by the Lord. You know you are still faithful to God, but is he remaining faithful to you?

Feeling far from the Lord can be scary, confusing, and disappointing. Praying is difficult during this time, yet it is necessary and helpful for drawing near to the Lord despite the feelings of distance.

God is still faithful even though it may not feel that way. Be strong, and remain faithful. Pray, and listen. God still loves you, and he is closer than you think.

Pray

Prayer in the morning or at night:

Lord, you know how far from you I feel right now, but you also know how near I want to feel and how much I love you and am faithful to you still. Please grant me whatever I need to follow your will, and please help me to know that I am following your will even amidst the suffering of this feeling of distance. I ask, as Jesus did, “Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from me; yet, not as I will, but as you will.” I love you, Lord. Please draw me near to you, and help me to come as close to you as possible. Thank you. Amen.

Scripture passages to repeat:

“We know that in everything God works for good with those who love him, who are called according to his purpose.” -Rom 8:28

“Be strong and of good courage; be not frightened, neither be dismayed; for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” -Josh 1:9

“Be strong and of good courage…It is the Lord who goes before you; he will be with you, he will not fail you or forsake you; do not fear or be dismayed.” -Deut 31:7-8

“Have no anxiety about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which passes all understanding, will keep your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” -Phil 4:6-7

“Count it all joy, my brethren, when you meet various trials, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.” -Jas 1:2-4

“My Father, if it be possible, let this chalice pass from me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as you will.” -Mt 26:39

“Draw near to God and he will draw near to you.” -Jas 4:8

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not rely on your own insight. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” -Prov 3:5-6

Who to pray to for intercession: St. Teresa of Calcutta

We recommend praying to St. Teresa of Calcutta because she experienced spiritual desolation for years.

Novena:

St. Teresa, you are a light for me as I struggle with feeling far from God. You experienced spiritual desolation, yet you remained faithful to God. Please help me to remain faithful to God too. In particular, please pray and intercede that [enter intention]. Thank you, St. Teresa, for praying and interceding for these intentions. I will remain open to God, like you did, despite my feelings of distance. I will remember your example and remind myself that I too can become a saint if I remain faithful. St. Teresa, please pray for me. Thank you. Amen.

Cooperate with God

Be sure to maintain habits that will keep you close to the Lord so he can work in you no matter what you are feeling. Here are some ways to stay close:

  • Receive the sacrament of Confession monthly or weekly.
  • Receive the Eucharist often (daily, if possible).
  • Attend Eucharistic Adoration often (weekly, if possible). Be sure part of the time is spent listening to God in silence.
  • Read the writings of saints who also felt far from God. We recommend St. Teresa of Calcutta’s autobiography, which illustrates her faithfulness even during spiritual desolation.
  • Examine your life in light of the faith and devotions. Do you need to make any changes in behaviors, attitudes, or beliefs in order to remain faithful to God? What devotions might help you to remain faithful and stay spiritually strong?