May 28: Draw Near

Some days God feels far away, and you’re not sure He’s listening.

James gives a simple promise. Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.

It sounds almost too easy. But it’s worth noticing what it doesn’t say. It doesn’t say feel close to God. It says draw near. That’s an action, not a feeling. You can move toward God even when your feelings say He isn’t there.

Dry seasons in prayer are common in recovery, and in the Christian life generally. Sometimes it’s after a big spiritual high. You did your Fifth Step, felt amazing, and now it’s just ordinary again. Sometimes it’s because you’re tired, or stressed, or haven’t been sleeping. Sometimes there’s no obvious reason at all.

In those seasons, drawing near can look very plain. Saying the same short prayer every morning even if it feels like nothing. Reading one psalm. Sitting quietly for five minutes. Going to church even when you don’t feel like it. Going to a meeting.

James goes on: cleanse your hands, purify your hearts. Sometimes distance from God has a cause. A resentment you’re feeding again. A small dishonesty you’ve been ignoring. If something like that is there, deal with it. Confession often clears the air.

But often there’s no special cause. It’s just a dry patch. Keep walking anyway. Feelings come and go. God’s promise doesn’t. He said He’ll draw near. He keeps His word whether you feel it today or not.

Dry prayer is still prayer. Showing up when it feels empty may be one of the most honest prayers there is.

It may also help to tell someone. Your sponsor or a friend in recovery has probably been through a dry season too. Saying, prayer feels empty right now, is honest, and honesty with another person often opens a door that felt stuck. You don’t have to fake a closeness you don’t feel.

And if the dryness comes with deep sadness that won’t lift, talk to a doctor or counselor as well. Your body and mind matter to God too.

One thing today

Pick one small, regular way to draw near to God this week: the same short prayer each morning, one psalm each night, or five quiet minutes. Do it today even if it feels like nothing.

A prayer

God, You feel far away today. But I’m taking a step toward You anyway. You promised that if I draw near to You, You’ll draw near to me. I’m trusting that. Amen.

Read about Step Five.

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