There are times in my journey of faith when I feel stagnant; nothing is happening. I feel like my prayers are hitting a ceiling and bouncing back. When I read the Bible, I feel like there’s nothing I haven’t read before, and the words just fall flat. To be honest, it feels entirely stale. At such times, I feel very distant from God, but I’ve come to realize that such moments are the best times for growth.
When I feel this way, I have no choice but to turn to God. I have no one else to turn to and nowhere else to go, but He is always available to help.
Psalm 46:1 NIV
God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.
God is our help, and He promised He would never leave or forsake us, even during such times. He will renew our minds and give us revelations from the scriptures we thought futile.
2 Corinthians 4: 16 NIV
Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day.
Here are some practical tips that I use to help me find renewal in my spiritual life and help me along my faith journey.
Develop a Consistent Lifestyle of Spiritual Practices
Consistency is key to maintaining spiritual vitality. Just as physical exercise requires regularity to see results, so does spiritual discipline. I like to set aside dedicated time each day for prayer, meditation, and scripture reading. I also like to listen to sermons that uplift my spirit and draw me closer to God. The scriptures encourage us to always pray without ceasing, emphasizing the importance of constant connection to God.
1 Thessalonians 5:17 NIV
Pray continually.
Spice Up Your Spiritual Routine
While consistency is crucial, variety adds spice to our spiritual routines. I like to try different prayer styles, like chatting with God like He’s my best friend, praying for others, or even jotting down my thoughts and feelings in my journal. Don’t be shy to try out new stuff that speaks to your heart.
Join a Bible-Based Christian Community
I remind myself that we’re not meant to walk this journey alone. Being around fellow believers who can support and encourage you or even challenge you brings comfort. Knowing that you are with like-minded people encourages you to continue in your faith, even when you feel like it is dwindling.
Proverbs 27:17
Iron sharpens iron, and one person sharpens another.
Participate in Public Service and Outreach
Jesus told us to love one another and to serve each other. He always served. We can look to Jesus during times when our faith feels stagnant and follow His lead. Look for opportunities to volunteer in your community, lend a helping hand to those in need, or get involved in missions work. As you pour out love and compassion, you’ll find your own spirit refreshed and renewed.
Practice Gratitude and Mindfulness
Gratitude is a powerful antidote to spiritual staleness. Develop a habit of thankfulness, acknowledging God’s blessings in your life, both big and small. Count your blessings every day and take time to enjoy the beauty, wonder, and joy that God has granted us.
Psalm 118:24 NIV
The Lord has done it this very day; let us rejoice today and be glad.
Seek Spiritual Mentors and Role Models
Learning from those who’ve walked the path of faith before us can provide valuable insights and inspiration. Connect to spiritual mentors or role models whose lives reflect the qualities you aspire to have in your own life. Whether it’s an elder in your church, a preacher, or a historical figure of faith, their wisdom can guide and encourage you on your journey.
Take Time to Rest and Reflect
So many of us, myself included, neglect the importance of rest and reflection. Yet, the Bible reminds us of the Sabbath principle, setting aside time for rest and renewal. Even God rested. Embrace seasons of rest, allowing yourself time to recharge, rejuvenate and refresh physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
Ecclesiastes 3:1
There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens:
In times of spiritual staleness intentionality, commitment, and a willingness to embrace growth and change are essential.
Isaiah 40:31
But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.
As Isaiah tells us in the verse above, our strength is renewed when we stay and wait on God. Through His spirit, He refreshes us and sustains us in His word so that we don’t grow weary.
Susan is a mother of four beautiful babies and a born-again Christian. She took over Hope No Matter What in 2024 and enjoys sharing her knowledge of the goodness and faithfulness of God. Her passion is to bring hope and encouragement to others, and she prays that by sharing her knowledge and personal story, she can inspire others to find enlightenment in God's word.