Apathy is Spiritual Numbness

"Apathy is a spiritual numbness that creeps in and corrupts the good that God intends for our life and the good that He wants us to accomplish for Him and His kingdom."  - Elizabeth George

Are you feeling emotionless or sluggishness in your connection with God? More than likely, it's something that happened over a period of time. Sure, it was easy at first. Everything was new, and you were eager to soak up as much religion as you could.

You've probably heard that life is a marathon and not a sprint. This is a good way of analogizing our relational journey with God. Life is a long road, and there will be many twists, turns, ups, and downs along the way.

During the course of day-to-day life there are many variables, both seen and unseen, that can affect us in different ways. Understandably then, it is difficult for any believer to be charged up all of the time.

Likewise, our relationship with God may experience ebbs and flows. When this occurs we feel disconnected, and even distant from Him. This can cause guilt and sorrow for our declining and sagging faith. 

My friends, you are not alone! Bouts of apathetic spirituality can and do occur (even more often than you might think). Some may recognize this by other names, such as: dryness, lethargy, indifference, stupor, futility, blankness, among others.

"Apathy," derived from the Greek word apathḗs, signifies “unfeeling,” from a-, “a lack of,” and pathos, “feeling.” I like to think of it as a relational discontinuity, or "hiccup" in our connection with God. 

What must be made clear at this point, is that God is not apathetic. In fact, he disapproves of apathy and does not tolerate it. God considers it a sin toward him and his assurances; leading to possibly even more of it. 

So how can we pull out of the downward spiral caused by apathy? We can begin by asking ourselves some tough questions. First, are we walking in spiritual disobedience or indifference in any areas of our life? (Proverbs 17:5)

Sin is the cause of many things in our lives, and it certainly plays a role in spiritual apathy. It's worth noting, feeling impenitent and defiant about our sin can cause a cold, callous attitude toward God. (Ephesians 4:19)

Additionally, we can sometimes make things harder on ourselves than need be. Looking for shortcuts to grow closer to God, or trying to uncover secrets to his power only serve to frustrate and stifle spiritual growth. (Ephesians 5:16) 

Remember, sticking to the basics always works best! Actively read your Bible daily, and pray regularly and fervently. As Charles Spurgeon once said, "Prayer can never be in excess." 

Allow me to share one final piece of advice with you. As I mentioned above, many things can affect our relationship with God in the course of our lives. We must therefore make the effort, and take time, to include God in our thoughts and minds.

Family, work, and other social relationships are important to a healthy and happy life. But, we can't forget to include God in this, too. In fact, in the order of our priorities, God should be at the top of the list! (Romans 12:11)

Not thinking about God leaves us wide open harmful and immoral influences. We then begin to lose sight of the prize He will give us someday. That is, the crown of righteousness. (2 Corinthians 4:18)

Apathy can be overcome. Yes, it will take some work on our part, but it is doable. Start with small steps; gradually working your way up as God allows you to. Read, pray, and work at it. The results will come. God promises you! (Matthew 24:13)

Scripture: Revelation 3:16; John 5:39-40; Galatians 6:9; Romans 10:1; Colossians 1:29

Prayer: "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Amen."  - Romans 15:13

May God be with you,

Sophie