Walking Faithfully Through Seasons of Spiritual Dryness

Contending for the Word Q&A
Author: Dave Jenkins
Date: December 28, 2025

Show Summary

Question: How should Christians handle seasons of spiritual dryness?

Every believer experiences seasons when prayer feels difficult, Scripture feels distant, worship feels routine, and the heart feels dull. Spiritual dryness is not unusual. It is part of the normal Christian life in a fallen world. Yet these seasons are not wasted. God often uses them to grow us, humble us, test our faith, and draw us into deeper dependence upon Him.

A common question believers ask during these times is this, “How should Christians handle seasons of spiritual dryness?” Scripture offers both clarity and hope.

Be honest about your spiritual condition

David did not pretend spiritual dryness did not exist. He cried out honestly before the Lord, saying, “Why are you cast down, O my soul?” (Psalm 42:5). He acknowledged the heaviness of his heart rather than suppressing it. Spiritual dryness becomes dangerous when it is ignored or hidden. Honest confession before God is often the first step toward renewal. The Lord is not offended by truthful prayers. He invites them.

Draw near to God even when desire feels weak

One of the great temptations in spiritual dryness is withdrawal. When God feels distant, believers are tempted to step back rather than press in. Yet Scripture calls us to do the opposite. James 4:8 promises, “Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.” Faithfulness matters even when feelings lag behind. Continue to pray. Continue reading Scripture. Continue gathering for worship. Continue seeking fellowship. Spiritual warmth often follows obedience, not the other way around.

Examine your heart for unconfessed sin

Not every season of dryness is the result of sin, but Scripture reminds us that unconfessed sin can dull the soul. Psalm 32 describes how hidden sin weighs heavily on the heart and drains spiritual vitality. Ask the Lord to search you and reveal anything that needs repentance, as Psalm 139:23–24 teaches. When sin is exposed, respond quickly and fully. God delights in restoring the repentant heart.

Remember God’s faithfulness in the past

When David felt spiritually dry, he intentionally remembered the works of the Lord. Psalm 77:11–12 shows him rehearsing God’s faithfulness in earlier seasons. Reflect on how the Lord has sustained you before. Recall answered prayers, moments of strength, and seasons of growth. God has not changed, and His past faithfulness fuels present hope.

Let Scripture shape your heart, especially the Psalms

The Psalms speak honestly for weary believers. They teach us how to pray when words are hard to find and how to hope when emotions feel thin. Read slowly and prayerfully. Let Scripture speak first, shaping your thoughts and emotions rather than reacting only to how you feel. God’s Word revives the soul even when the heart feels dry.

Walk closely with other believers

Isolation often intensifies spiritual dryness. Hebrews 10:24–25 reminds us that God uses fellowship to stir our hearts toward love and good works. Invite trusted, mature believers into your struggle. Let them pray for you, encourage you, speak truth, walk with you, and remind you of God’s promises. The Lord frequently brings renewal through His people.

Rest in the truth that dryness is not abandonment

God may feel distant, but He is not absent. He has promised never to leave or forsake His people (Hebrews 13:5). Seasons of dryness often refine faith, deepen dependence, strengthen perseverance, and prepare believers for future fruitfulness. God’s work is not limited to moments of strong emotion. He often works most deeply in quiet seasons.

Fix your eyes on Christ, not your spiritual performance

Your hope does not rest on the strength of your feelings but on the faithfulness of your Savior. Christ’s love does not rise and fall with your emotional state. Even when your heart feels dry, His grace remains abundant. Look to Jesus. He is your rest, your renewal, your strength, and your joy.

Takeaways and Reflection Questions

• Where have you noticed spiritual dryness showing up most, prayer, Scripture intake, worship, or fellowship?
• Is there any unconfessed sin the Lord is bringing to mind that needs repentance?
• What past evidences of God’s faithfulness can you rehearse this week?
• Who can you invite to pray with you and encourage you during this season?
• What is one practical step you will take this week to draw near to God, even without strong feelings?

Call to Action

If this helped you, consider sharing it with a friend who may be walking through a dry season. You can also explore more biblical resources at Servants of Grace, and if you would like prayer or have a question for a future Q&A, reach out through our contact page.

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