Spiritual slumps can often be dry places that are temporary periods where a believer feels distant from God or some aspect of their faith, experiencing a lack of spiritual engagement and motivation. These periods can be caused by various reasons and factors, including life stressors, feelings of discouragement, or even a sense of spiritual burnout. Overcoming these slumps or dry places involves recognizing the signs, seeking guidance if needed, and pulling away from things that may be distractions from what or where you once were actively engaging and being a part of. For instance, returning to those practices that can rekindle your faith and connection with God.
The signs of spiritual slumps or dry places can easily be recognized by that lack of commitment in our living for, being obedient to, and serving the Lord as we once have done. If we know that we are neglecting feeding our spiritual body by skipping prayer, Bible reading, attending church, or even engaging in Christian fellowship, then we may be on the road to returning to the place where we once experienced spiritual freedom, peace and sweet fellowship with the Lord.
A loss of spiritual motivation and desire to participate in spiritual activities and fellowship can cause us to have internal struggles that bring on apathy, cynicism, and a sense of spiritual dryness. These feelings will replace our joy with a sense of distance from God as well as other believers and a sense of emptiness or disconnection from what and how we once may have felt. If we do not turn back to God, these feelings will increase heaping thoughts of negativity and our feelings will become more negative and critical instead of positive and joyful.
In order to overcome these feelings, simply acknowledge to God the slump or place that you are in, recognizing that you are struggling and need His help. Possibly seek guidance and wisdom by talking to someone you trust.
Engage your faith by focusing on activities that nurture your spiritual life and walk, such as prayer, reading your Bible, obeying those things God may be instructing you to do, but you have been running the opposite direction from what He has been saying. And be sure to get connected with other believers. Trust in God's love and forgiveness. He is always present, even when you feel lost or discouraged. Remember that slumps are temporary and they will pass. Your job is to surrender and do what you know you must do. God will do the rest!
Recognize that these periods are a normal part of the spiritual journey and can be a time of growth and renewal and don't give up! Continue to seek God and engage in godly spiritual practices, even when you don't feel like it. God will guide you through this season that you are going through if you seek Him on His terms. Evaluate your priorities and identify any areas where you may be neglecting God or your spiritual life. Focus on God's promises and remind yourself of God's love, grace, and faithfulness.
Pray for strength and guidance. Ask God for the wisdom and courage to overcome this slump. Surround yourself with godly positive influences and get rid of those things that may be encouraging you to act in a way that you know in your heart would not please Him. I Corinthians 15:33 says, "Do not be misled: “Bad company corrupts good character.” Connect with people who encourage and support your faith and avoid those who are influencing you to be disobedient to your heavenly Father. Be patient and persistent. Don't get discouraged and never ever give up!
Hold Fast,
-Bren
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