Why Do We Feel God's Presence Some Days and Other Days Absolutely Nothing?

As believers, many of us have experienced those beautiful moments where we can clearly sense God’s presence—whether during prayer, worship, or just in quiet moments of reflection. But on other days, it can feel like we’re disconnected, as if God is far away, and our prayers bounce off the ceiling. Why do we sometimes feel God so clearly, and other times feel absolutely nothing?

This is a question many of us wrestle with, and while the reasons for these spiritual ebbs and flows can vary, the good news is that God's presence remains constant. He has promised to never leave us nor forsake us (Hebrews 13:5). But understanding why we sometimes feel distant from Him can help us grow in our faith and trust Him, even when emotions fail to offer reassurance.

1. Our Emotional and Mental State Affects Our Perception of God's Presence

One of the main reasons we might feel distant from God is because of our emotional and mental state. When we’re overwhelmed with stress, anxiety, or exhaustion, it’s harder to feel connected to God. Our emotions and thoughts can create barriers that cloud our awareness of God’s presence.

In Psalm 42:11, David expresses a deep longing for God despite feeling downcast and disturbed: “Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.” Even when we feel emotionally distant, the Psalmist reminds us to choose hope in God and continue praising Him. We may not always “feel” His presence, but God is with us even in our darkest moments.

2. Spiritual Seasons: God’s Presence in the Valleys and the Peaks

The Bible tells us that there are seasons in our spiritual journey. Sometimes we experience closeness with God, and other times, it may feel like we’re walking through a spiritual desert. This ebb and flow can be part of God’s plan for spiritual growth.

In Psalm 23:4, David writes, “Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” Though David walked through a difficult time, he trusted that God was still with him. God’s presence is not bound by our circumstances, and even when we don’t feel Him, He is near.

Similarly, the Apostle Paul wrote in 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 that in his weaknesses, God’s grace was sufficient: “But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.” There are times in our spiritual journey when we may not feel God’s presence, but this is often when we learn to rely on His grace and strength the most.

3. External Factors and Life Circumstances

Our life circumstances also play a role in how we feel God’s presence. When life is difficult—whether due to illness, loss, or trials—we may feel like God is far away. In these moments, it’s important to remember that God is still with us, even when we don’t sense it.

In Isaiah 41:10, God assures His people, “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Even in times of hardship, God’s presence is unshakable. He will not abandon us, even when we can’t perceive Him.

The book of Job is another powerful reminder of how God’s presence remains in the midst of suffering. Job never felt God's presence in the way he once did, yet he trusted in God’s sovereignty. In Job 42:2, he says, “I know that you can do all things; no purpose of yours can be thwarted.” Even when we feel disconnected, we can trust that God is still at work in our lives, shaping us and preparing us for what lies ahead.

4. Spiritual Disciplines: Seeking God Even When We Don’t Feel Him

God has given us tools—prayer, Scripture, worship, and fellowship—that help us stay connected to Him, even when we don’t feel His presence. These spiritual disciplines allow us to walk by faith, not by sight or feelings.

Hebrews 11:6 reminds us, “And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.” The key here is seeking God, even when we don’t feel His presence. Our feelings may fluctuate, but our faith is rooted in His unchanging nature.

Jesus also encourages us in Matthew 7:7, “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.” When we feel distant from God, it’s a reminder to keep pursuing Him. The act of seeking God, whether through prayer or reading His Word, is an essential part of maintaining a relationship with Him.

5. God’s Timing: Trusting His Presence, Even When We Don’t Feel It

Finally, sometimes God allows us to go through seasons where we feel spiritually dry. These moments can teach us patience, endurance, and trust in His timing. God’s absence is not abandonment—it’s often an invitation to deepen our faith.

In Isaiah 55:8-9, God tells us, “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways… As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.” God’s ways are beyond our understanding, and sometimes we may not immediately understand why we feel distant from Him. However, we can trust that His plan is always good.

Conclusion: Resting in the Unchanging Nature of God’s Presence

While we may feel distant from God at times, it’s important to remember that our feelings do not dictate God’s presence. His Word assures us that He is always with us—whether we feel it or not. In moments of spiritual dryness, continue to seek Him through prayer, worship, and the study of Scripture. And remember, even in the silence, God is working in your life.

Jesus promises in Matthew 28:20, “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” No matter what season you are in, God’s presence remains constant. Trust in His faithfulness, and know that He is near, even on the days when it feels like He is not.