Feeling Distant From God After Loss

“The Lord is near to the brokenhearted; he saves those crushed in spirit.” —Psalm 34:18

Grief has a way of making us feel distant from God. After losing a loved one, the emotional and spiritual pain can be overwhelming, leaving us questioning His presence in our lives. You may find yourself asking, "Where is God in my suffering?" or "Why do I feel so far from Him when I need Him the most?" These are the questions I was left with. If you're feeling distant from God after facing such a loss, you are not alone. Many of us experience a spiritual disconnection in the midst of our deepest pain, wondering why the God who promises to be near seems so far away.

It's important to remember that feeling distant from God does not mean He has abandoned you. Psalm 34:18 reminds us that "The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves those crushed in spirit." Even when we can't feel His presence, God is closer than we realize. He is not repelled by our pain or doubts; instead, He draws near to us in our brokenness. It's in these moments of feeling distant that we need to cling to the truth of God's Word, even when our emotions tell us otherwise. He is with you in your grief, carrying you through the darkness, even when you can't see the light.

“The Lord is near to the brokenhearted; he saves those crushed in spirit.” —Psalm 34:18

Strengthening your relationship with God during times of grief begins with small steps of faith. Start by being honest with Him about how you feel. God desires an authentic relationship with you, and that includes the moments of doubt, anger, and sadness. In moments of prayer, pour out your heart to Him—tell Him about your pain, your questions, and your longing to feel close to Him again. James 4:8 encourages us, "Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you." As you reach out to God, even in your weakness, He promises to meet you there.

Another way to reconnect with God is by immersing yourself in His Word. The Bible is full of stories of people who experienced deep sorrow yet found hope in God's promises. Spend time reading and meditating on scriptures that speak to your situation. Verses like Isaiah 41:10, which 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 hold onto you with my righteous right hand," can be a source of great comfort. Let these truths seep into your heart, reminding you of God's steadfast love and faithfulness, even in your pain.

"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 hold onto you with my righteous right hand." Isaiah 41:10

Finally, seek community and support. Grief often makes us want to withdraw, but God designed us to find strength in community. Surround yourself with fellow believers who can pray with you, encourage you, and remind you of God's presence. Whether it's through a church group, a close friend, or a grief support group, don't journey through this season alone. God often speaks through others, and their support can be a tangible reminder of His love for you. Remember, feeling distant from God is a natural part of the grief process, but it doesn't have to define your spiritual journey. With each small step toward Him, you can find healing, comfort, and the closeness you long for.

Need more practical tips for navigating grief?

Check out my free e-book, "Tips for Healthy Grieving"

If you missed last month's blog, "Have Our Hearts Grown Calloused?" you can access it here .