Have you ever noticed that the closer you try to draw near to God, the more life seems to fall apart? Maybe the moment you commit to reading your Bible daily, unexpected busyness fills your mornings. Or when you decide to start praying consistently, distractions suddenly multiply. Sometimes it feels like everything around us rises up to pull us away just when we want to press in the most.
This is no coincidence. Scripture reminds us that “the thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy” (John 10:10). Whenever you pursue intimacy with the Lord, you will encounter resistance—from life’s demands, from spiritual opposition, and even from your own doubts and habits. But take heart: these challenges can actually deepen your faith if you choose to face them with courage and perseverance.
Why Circumstances Become Harder When You Seek God
1. Spiritual Resistance
Walking closer to God makes you more aware of the enemy’s attempts to distract and discourage you. The battles often intensify when you’re on the right path.
2. Refining of Faith
Sometimes God allows obstacles so that your faith is tested and strengthened, like gold refined in the fire (1 Peter 1:7).
3. Exposure of Priorities
The pursuit of God reveals what competes for your heart—comfort, control, or worldly distractions. Challenges show us where our loyalties truly lie.
How to Face These Challenges
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Anchor Yourself in Scripture
Keep God’s Word at the center. Write down verses, tape them on your mirror, or keep them as phone reminders. His promises give you perspective when circumstances try to overwhelm you. -
Pray Through Distractions
Don’t wait until life calms down to pray—pray in the middle of the mess. Whisper prayers while folding laundry, driving, or caring for others. God doesn’t require perfect settings, just an open heart. -
Guard Your Time with God
Treat it like a non-negotiable appointment. Just as you wouldn’t cancel a meeting with your boss, don’t cancel time with the Lord. Even if it’s short, consistency builds strength. -
Lean on Community
Surround yourself with other believers who will pray with you, encourage you, and remind you that you’re not walking alone. -
Look for God in the Disruption
Sometimes, the very circumstances you perceive as interruptions may be where God is at work. Instead of asking “Why me?” ask, “Lord, what are You teaching me here?”
Overcoming with Hope
The truth is, circumstances will never be perfect. If you wait until life slows down, you may never draw near to God. Instead, let the obstacles remind you of your deep need for Him. James 4:8 says, “Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.” That promise is sure, even in the busiest and hardest seasons.
When everything seems to stand in your way, remember: every step you take toward God is worth it. The resistance you face is not a sign of failure, but evidence that you are moving in the right direction. Keep pressing on. Morning always comes after the darkest night, and His light will meet you there.
I encourage you to share in the comments one small step you can take this week to draw closer to God despite life’s interruptions. For me, I want to incorporate prayer walks into my morning routine. What about you?
With love,
