When Prayer Hurts and 4 Ways to Get Through

Like everything in life, faith and prayer has their ups and downs. Just as every person is diverse from their neighbor, so will each one’s mountains and valleys of prayer manifest in their lives.

I have so many examples of how this arid season shows up in my life. Recently, I’ve found myself in a bit of a rut. The church’s doors are always unlocked on campus and I’ve taken advantage of that. I would peak my head in almost every day, saying a quick prayer between classes. And yet, no matter how often I did this, I would walk away with a heart and soul more parched than how I that came in.

Have you ever experienced that? If you have, you’ve probably thought “Well, now what? I’m praying regularly and I’m praying ‘well’, so why isn’t it doing anything? Why do I still feel like this?”

More than a year ago, at a time when my anxiety was very bad, praying would cause panic attack after panic attack. It was painful on so many levels I almost gave up praying altogether.

I’m so glad I didn’t.

How did I get myself out of it over a year ago? How do I plan on slowly getting myself out of this now?

1) Adoration

This is my favorite thing in the world and I would recommend it to anyone if they ask. It’s beautiful and traditional and (for me, at least) one of the best ways to feels God’s presence.

Last week I went to adoration and, almost immediately after the Exposition, I burst into tears. Adoration is so healing.

Not as healing as this next one, though.

2) Confession

Usually, when your prayer life is like this, there’s also something else going on in your life. Determine whether it’s sin or something else. If it’s sin? Go to confession! I can guarantee you, you will feel so much better.

3) Embrace it

Honestly? Everyone goes through this. Honestly? It’s hard. Honestly? Sometimes there’s nothing you can do.

I promise, it’ll get better. There’s light at the end of the tunnel whether you see it or not. Push through.

Another great way to embrace it is to ‘send it up’. Give this pain and dry season to God and let Him do with it as He wills.

Be masochistic about it. (I realize how odd that sounds but trust me). Praying doesn’t do anything anymore? Pray even more, knowing full well what it won’t do. Praying is painful? Pray harder. Sooner rather than later, it’ll become easier.

But most importantly?

4) Never stop praying!

#Prayer #Adoration #Confession