We all have moments when we feel distant from God—those seasons where His presence feels quiet, our prayers feel dry, or we just don’t feel connected. When that happens, you don’t need to panic or assume God has moved away. Instead, take a step back and ask yourself a simple, but powerful question: “Have I stopped any habits that help me to connect with God?”
Here’s what I’ve learned: my relationship with God, like any relationship, requires intentional time and space. In the busyness of life, it’s easy for that time to get crowded out. When it does, you start to feel it. you start to feel off. Not condemned or ashamed—just disconnected. And when you feel that way, you can gently guide yourself back into the habits that help you stay close to God.
Here are a few of my go-to connection habits:
First, I pray morning and evening. They’re often not long or fancy prayers, but they’re consistent. As Tony Evans once said, “A little prayer is better than no prayer.”
Second, I read my Bible. I use my Bible app each morning and follow a plan with a friend for accountability. Some days it’s one verse, other days it’s more—but it keeps me grounded in the truth.
Third, I journal. This is how I cast my cares on God and process what’s going on in my heart. About five days a week, I write it out and let Him meet me on the pages of my prayer journal.
Fourth, I take walks. Nearly every day, I take a walk—no music, no distractions—just me, God, and fresh air. It refreshes me in body and soul.
When I neglect these habits, even for good reasons, I can start to feel distant from God. But the beauty is: God is always ready to meet me again. He hasn’t gone anywhere—I just need to come back to stillness, to quiet, and to His presence.
James 4:8 says, “Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.” (ESV)
That’s a promise I’ve seen Him keep time and time again.
Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, thank You that even when I feel distant, You’re still near. Help me to build my life on habits that keep me connected to You. When I drift, gently lead me back—and remind me that You’re always ready to meet with me. In Jesus’ Name, I pray, Amen.