My Faith Feels Stagnant | Abigail Advice

Dear Feeling Stuck,

Thank you for writing and sharing something that many believers quietly experience at one time or another. The fact that you recognize this feeling is actually a very good sign. Many people continue through their routines for years without ever stopping to consider where they are in their faith. Your awareness shows that your heart still desires to grow.

There are seasons in the Christian life when growth feels slower or less noticeable. We continue our spiritual disciplines such as prayer, reading Scripture, and attending church, yet it may feel as though nothing is changing. However, spiritual growth is not always measured by our feelings. Sometimes we rely too heavily on what we feel in a moment, but our feelings do not always reflect what God is doing in our lives.

In the book of Revelation, Jesus spoke to several churches about their spiritual condition. His words offer helpful guidance for times like this. He told them to remember, repent, and return to their first works (Revelation 2:5). This instruction is simple but powerful. Remembering what God has done in your life can renew gratitude. Repenting helps us address areas where we may have drifted. Returning to the things that once strengthened our walk with God often rekindles spiritual growth.

The apostle Paul also gave similar encouragement to Timothy. Paul reminded him of the sincere faith that had been passed down through his mother and grandmother, and he urged him to “stir up the gift of God, which is in thee” (2 Timothy 1:5–6). Notice that Paul did not say the gift was gone. It was still there. Timothy simply needed to stir it up and put it to use again.

Sometimes faith feels stagnant because we have settled into routine without actively engaging the gifts and opportunities God has placed before us. Serving others, encouraging someone who is struggling, studying Scripture more deeply, or stepping into an area of ministry can often reignite growth in ways we did not expect.

It is also helpful to remember that faithfulness in ordinary things matters. Continuing to pray, read Scripture, and gather with other believers may seem routine at times, but these habits form the steady foundation of spiritual life. Even when emotions are quiet, God is still at work shaping our hearts through these disciplines.

Do not be discouraged by this season. Instead, see it as an invitation to reflect and refocus. Remember the ways God has worked in your life. Ask Him to reveal anything that needs to change. Then return with renewed intention to the practices and service that once helped your faith grow.

Your desire to move forward in your walk with Christ is a good thing. The faith you have is not gone. Like Paul encouraged Timothy, it may simply need to be stirred up again.

Blessings,

Abigail