What To Read When You Feel Disconnected From God

Feeling disconnected from God can be a painful and lonely experience. If you’re searching for ways to reconnect with your faith, the good news is that there are many inspirational books, passages, and resources that can help restore your connection with the divine.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the top books, Bible verses, and other materials to turn to when you need spiritual nourishment and a reset for your relationship with God.

Devotional Books to Reconnect You to God

The Confessions by Augustine

Written in the 4th century, Augustine’s Confessions is considered one of the most influential Christian texts in history. Chronicling his sinful past and eventual conversion, Augustine vulnerably shares his inner turmoil, realization of God’s grace, and the peace he discovered in submitting his life to Christ.

This book helps readers reconnect with God by reminding us that He accepts us no matter our past, and longs for an authentic relationship with even the most broken among us.

Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis

Originally a compilation of radio lectures C.S. Lewis delivered during WWII, Mere Christianity expertly explains the basic theological beliefs shared by all Christians. Lewis breaks down foundational concepts like morality, divorce, forgiveness, hope and faith in an insightful yet simple way.

This book is perfect for new believers or those reexamining what they believe. Lewis brilliantly shows how having faith in God and living by Biblical principles leads to purpose, freedom and joy.

The Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis

A creative fictional story told through a series of letters, The Screwtape Letters depicts a senior demon, Screwtape, advising his nephew Wormwood on how to tempt his “patient” away from God. Amusing yet disturbingly accurate, Lewis gives readers a glimpse into how Satan operates to lead people astray.

This book will make you more aware of sin’s subtle lies while reminding you of God’s overpowering grace and truth.

The Imitation of Christ by Thomas à Kempis

Considered one of history’s greatest devotional works, The Imitation of Christ contains timeless wisdom on drawing closer to God. Written by 15th-century cleric Thomas à Kempis, the book covers various spiritual topics like humility, repentance, resisting temptation and self-denial.

Beautifully eloquent yet simple, its meditations aim to kindle the fire of God’s love in readers’ hearts. An intimate classic loved by millions, including figures like Thomas More, John Wesley and Pope John Paul I.

Bible Verses for When You Feel Far from God

Psalm 63:1

This psalm expresses the raw longing we feel when we sense distance from God. The psalmist cries out, “O God, you are my God, earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you, my body longs for you, in a dry and weary land where there is no water.”

We’ve all been there – feeling like we’re crawling through the desert when what we really need is the living water of Christ. This verse reminds us that it’s okay to cry out to God from that place of spiritual dryness.

He hears our longing and can revive our souls even in the driest seasons if we seek Him earnestly.

Psalm 73:25-26

In this psalm, the writer describes how his sense of distance from God made him jealous of the wicked who seemed to prosper. But then he says, “Whom have I in heaven but you? And earth has nothing I desire besides you.

My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.” Even when we feel far from God, He remains our portion and the One our hearts truly long for. We just have to keep bringing our focus back to Him.

Though our feelings may fluctuate, God’s faithful love for us never changes.

Isaiah 41:10

This encouraging verse says, “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” When we feel far from God, it’s often because we’ve taken our eyes off Him and become focused on our circumstances.

But this verse reminds us that He is always with us and will strengthen, help and uphold us, even when we don’t feel it. We may walk through hard seasons of doubt and distance, but God never abandons His children.

Romans 8:38-39

Paul reminds us in this powerful passage that nothing can separate us from God’s love – not trouble, hardship, persecution, famine, nakedness, danger or sword. “Neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

When we feel far from God, we often falsely believe the distance comes from His side. But He promises nothing we face can cut us off from His unwavering love. The distance is an illusion we must fight through by faith.

Other Spiritual Resources to Turn To

Devotional podcasts and audiobooks

Podcasts and audiobooks can be great tools for connecting with God when you’re feeling disconnected from your faith. Popular Christian podcasts like Jesus Calling, A New Beginning with Greg Laurie, and Truth for Life offer encouraging biblical teaching in short, digestible episodes.

Audiobooks of Christian classics like Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis or contemporary authors like Max Lucado provide thoughtful inspiration.

The beauty of audio content is you can listen during a walk, commute, or quiet time at home. Let uplifting, scripture-driven messages stir your spirit and nourish your connection with God.

Christian forums and communities

Subreddits, forums, or Facebook groups focused on faith provide community support. Some popular ones are geared towards women, singles, married couples, parents, or denominational interests. You can read encouraging testimonies, ask questions, pray for others, and build bonds over shared Christian experiences.

Online Christian groups remind us we’re not alone in occasional struggles or doubts. And surrounding ourselves with brothers and sisters in Christ, whether in-person or virtually, uplifts and renews our dedication.

Meeting with a pastor or spiritual mentor

Speaking one-on-one with mature believers helps give perspective. Pastors meet with countless people over years of ministry, so they can share relevant guidance if you feel uncertain in faith. Friends who are strong in their relationship with God also lend empathetic ears.

Opening up provides catharsis while their insights shed spiritual wisdom.

Meeting regularly with someone further along in their walk with Christ provides accountability as well. Together you might study devotional books or scripture related to your concerns. Then check back on application and spiritual growth.

The body of Christ thrives most when generations invest in one another (Titus 2:2-8).

Conclusion

Feeling disconnected from God can be difficult, but there are many inspiring and nourishing resources to turn to for strength and comfort. Immersing yourself in spiritual books, key Bible passages, and other faith-based materials can help restart your connection with the Lord.

Most importantly, remember that He is always with you, even when you feel far away. Maintaining a practice of prayer and meditation will help you feel His presence and peace in your life once again.