We talk a lot about the need to grow spiritual. We encourage one another to read our Bibles everyday and to engage in a meaningful prayer life. We challenge one another to be involved in the work of the church. We put a strong emphasis on witnessing and engaging our community. But, what if there is no desire? This is a question that someone asked me recently. “Pastor, what do I do if I have no real desire?” This is a troubling question. To not have a desire for the things of God could be sign of lostness. However, the reality is that even believers can go through times when their desire is lacking. So, what do we do when we find ourselves in a spiritual rut with no desire to grow? Here are a few suggestions:

1. Force yourself to pray. You may not feel like it. You may not be in the mood, but you must pray. If we pray within the will of God, He will answer. It is God’s will that you grow in your walk with Him. Therefore, if you pray earnestly, seeking God to give a desire for more of Him, He will answer.
2. Examine your life and repent. There is a very real possibility that there is some sin that has hindered your desire for the things of God. Examine your life, confess, and repent.
3. Stay faithful. There is something to be said of methodic faithfulness. You may not be in the mood to read your Bible, but, read it anyways. You may not want to pray, but, pray anyways. Just keep on keeping on. As you develop such a habit, you will see that desire grow more and more. Soon, it will get to a point where you just can’t get enough!

I know its hard to be on top of your spiritual game all the time. We are human. We get tired. However, this does not give us an excuse to just throw in the towel and do nothing. If anything, it gives us an even greater incentive to seek the face of God.