Let us address a common struggle that every believer may face sometime or other in life – Spiritual Drought.
Sometimes, we may find ourselves disconnected from God, lacking passion in our faith, and feeling spiritually parched.
David was likely experiencing a season of spiritual drought or dryness when he wrote this psalm –
"How long, O Lord? Will You forget me forever? How long will You hide Your face from me? 2 How long shall I take counsel in my soul, Having sorrow in my heart daily? How long will my enemy be exalted over me?" Psalm 13:1–2
This is when we are spiritually weak and the devil takes advantage of us. The world and its cares crush us. Instead of running to God, we start running away from Him.
But God has provided us with the means to overcome this dry season and experience a revival of our spirits. Let us explore some key principles that guide us toward overcoming spiritual dryness.
Recognizing the Symptoms of Spiritual Drought
Before we can overcome spiritual dryness, we must first identify its symptoms. Some signs of spiritual Drought include –
Lack of joy and enthusiasm in our spiritual journey.
Feeling discouraged a lot lately.
Struggling to connect with God during prayer or praise and worship.
Feeling distant from the Word of God and struggling to find meaning in it.
Experiencing a decrease in spiritual hunger and fervor.
Reasons for Spiritual Drought
There are many reasons why spiritual dryness takes root in us and can include the following –
Tragedies, adversities, or illnesses can erode our hope and challenge our faith, leaving us feeling vulnerable.
We may find ourselves shifting our focus from nurturing relationships to being overly concerned with rules and regulations. In other words, our performance becomes more important than our closeness to God.
It’s possible that we have exhausted ourselves spiritually, running on empty because we failed to replenish our spiritual reserves.
We are not maintaining our connection to God. Perhaps we have become so caught up in our busy lives that we have forgotten the importance of spending time with Him.
“I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing.” John 15:5
Sin also causes distance between you and God. After David committed adultery he said,
“Restore to me the joy of Your salvation, And uphold me by Your generous Spirit.” Psalm 51:12
How to overcome it?
Let us look at some of the ways we can overcome Spiritual Drought –
Sow like Isaac during a famine (Genesis 26:12). He promises that if we draw near to Him, He will draw near to us (James 4:8).
Community and Fellowship
We are not meant to navigate our spiritual journey alone. Surround yourself with fellow believers who can uplift, encourage, and hold you accountable. The early church serves as an excellent model –
"And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers." - Acts 2:42
Join a Small Group
"Two are better than one,Because they have a good reward for their labor." - Ecclesiastes 4:9
Join a small group or Bible study where you can share your struggles, pray together, and support one another in your spiritual growth.
Serve Others
"For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.”" - Mark 10:45
Engaging in acts of service and ministry not only blesses others but also rejuvenates our own spirits. By giving of ourselves, we align our hearts with God’s purposes.
Nourishing Our Souls with the Word of God
The Bible is a living and powerful source of spiritual nourishment. It has the ability to revitalize our spirits and strengthen our souls. Consider these practices –
Meditate on Scripture
"But his delight is in the law of the Lord, And in His law he meditates day and night." - Psalm 1:2
Immerse yourself in the Word. Reflect on its teachings, promises, and guidance. Allow it to penetrate your heart and transform your mind.
Study the Word
"All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness," - 2 Timothy 3:16
Engage in Bible study groups or personal study, seeking a deeper understanding of God’s Word. Use study guides, devotionals, and commentaries to gain insights and practical application.
Seeking God’s Presence
To overcome spiritual drought, we must seek God’s presence wholeheartedly.
Engage in Worship
"But You are holy, Enthroned in the praises of Israel." - Psalm 22:3
Worship lifts our spirits and invites God’s presence into our lives. Sing praises to the Lord, meditate on His greatness, and offer your heartfelt worship.
Prioritise Prayer
"Pray without ceasing." - 1 Thessalonians 5:17
Create intentional and dedicated time for prayer, seeking communion with God. Pour out your heart before Him, sharing your struggles, hopes, and desires.
Be filled & Pray more in the Spirit
"...but be filled with the Spirit," - Ephesians 5:18
When you are full of the Spirit nothing else can fill you. No situation or circumstance can overwhelm or discourage you.
Conclusion
Dear friends, let us not remain stagnant in our spiritual drought. Through prayer, worship, immersion in God’s Word, and fellowship, we can overcome this season and experience a revival in our souls. Remember, the Holy Spirit is our Helper and Comforter, ready to breathe new strength into us. May we take these steps of faith, trusting that God will pour out His refreshing presence upon us, reviving and renewing our spirits. Let us eagerly pursue Him, knowing that He will meet us in our pursuit and lead us into abundant life in Christ.
“ But may the God of all grace, who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you..” 1 Peter 5:10
