How to love God when you don’t feel it

 

Loving God when you don't feel it is a matter of 

acting in obedience and faith rather than relying on fleeting emotions. It involves consistently choosing to pray, studying scripture, and serving others, even in a "dry" season. Love for God is defined by action—obeying His commandments—not by emotional highs. 

• Act First, Feel Later: Act as if you did feel love. Desiring God suggests that love is often a gift given when we act before we feel, such as obeying God's commands and serving others, which can later produce feelings.
• Focus on Truth Over Feelings: Remind yourself of God's character and promises through Scripture, rather than basing your faith on your emotional state, as highlighted by this YouTube video.
• Be Honest in Prayer: Share your feelings of dryness or distance directly with God. Pray for a renewed heart, asking Him to help you love Him.
• Engage in Small Disciplines: Maintain small, consistent spiritual habits like reading just one verse, listening to worship music, or taking a short, reflective walk.
• Trust in Obedience: Understand that loving God is a choice and a commitment to Him as a priority in your life.
• Be Patient: Acknowledge that spiritual seasons change. LDS Living encourages being patient and kind to yourself during these times. 

This period of "dryness" can be viewed as an opportunity to deepen your trust in God, relying on His faithfulness rather than your own emotions.