Are you Feeling Apathetic?

When Apathy Creeps In:
A Call to Reconnect

Have you ever felt like you’re just going through the motions?

Blah…

The passion you once had for prayer, worship, or even daily life seems to have faded. You know you should care, but your heart feels distant, dull, or even numb.

I live in an area of the Bible Belt where I have often felt this in the atmosphere.

I once heard a pastor get frustrated for people being apathetic.

Their answer?

Preach more sermons at the people. Sigh…

However… what our hearts need is NOT more information, but a connection.

(LOL – ya, this blog could end at being merely more information… so let’s NOT let this blog post end there. An invitation at the end is coming so you can experience encounter…)

Apathy is often a sign that our hearts are longing for deeper connection—especially with God. Rather than just a lack of motivation, spiritual apathy can be a symptom of a heart that needs revival.

But the good news?

Jesus is always ready to meet us where we are.

Biblical Examples of Apathy and Revival

The Church in Laodicea – Lukewarm Hearts (Revelation 3:15-20)
Jesus addressed the believers in Laodicea, warning them about their lukewarm faith:“I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other!”(Revelation 3:15)Their apathy made them spiritually ineffective. But rather than rejecting them, Jesus invited them back:“Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me.” (Revelation 3:20) When our hearts grow cold, Jesus doesn’t force His way in—He knocks, waiting for us to invite Him back into intimacy.
Martha’s Busyness vs. Mary’s Devotion (Luke 10:38-42)
Martha was caught up in distractions, while Mary sat at Jesus’ feet. Martha’s heart was restless, while Mary found peace in connection. Jesus lovingly corrected Martha:“Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her.” (Luke 10:41-42) Sometimes, apathy sneaks in because our hearts are exhausted from striving rather than abiding. Jesus invites us to pause and reconnect with Him.
The Prodigal Son – Returning to the Father (Luke 15:11-32)
The prodigal son ran away, thinking he could find fulfillment elsewhere. When everything fell apart, he realized what he truly longed for—home. His father welcomed him back with open arms.If you feel distant, remember: God isn’t waiting to punish you for drifting. He’s running toward you, ready to restore your joy.

Overcoming Apathy?:
Reconnecting with God

Acknowledge the Condition of Your Heart
Pray like David:“Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me.” (Psalm 51:10)
Be honest with God about how you’re feeling. He already knows, and He’s eager to revive your spirit.
Return to His Presence
Set aside time to sit with Him—not out of duty, but out of desire to reconnect. Worship, read His Word, or simply be still and invite Him in.
Pray for Fresh Fire
Ask the Holy Spirit to reignite your passion for the things of God.“Will you not revive us again, that your people may rejoice in you?” (Psalm 85:6)
Engage in Community
Surround yourself with others who are pursuing God. Accountability and encouragement can stir up your faith. (By the way, I know this is hard to find. Trust me. I hear this ALL THE TIME and so that’s why the Freedom Coaching Circle was birthed. How was it birthed? After an encounter with the Lord and hearing the heart cries of women.)
Take a Step of Obedience
Sometimes, action precedes feeling. Step out in faith (outside of the walls of church) —serve, worship, pray—and let God restore your passion as you walk with Him – out of the box. (There’s nothing boring outside of the four walls when you follow His leading!)

Listening Prayer Activation:
Encounter the Heart of God

Find a quiet place where you won’t be interrupted. Take a few deep breaths, still your mind, and invite the Holy Spirit to guide you.

Pray: Jesus, I feel disconnected, and I long to experience You again. I open my heart to hear Your voice. Please reveal what You want me to know about my heart today.
Listen: Ask God these questions and wait in stillness for His response. Write down any words, impressions, or scriptures that come to mind:
- Lord, where have I unknowingly drifted from You?
- What do You want to say to my heart today?
- How do You see me in this moment?
Receive: Imagine Jesus sitting with you. Ask Him, “Jesus, what do You want to give me to replace this apathy?” You may see Him handing you something symbolic (peace, joy, a flame, a gift, etc.). If so, ask Him why that?
Declare: End with this prayer:
Lord, I receive the fresh fire You are giving me today. I choose to open the door of my heart to You. Awaken me again to Your presence. Let me burn with love for You and walk in renewed passion. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

A Final Encouragement

If apathy has settled into your heart, don’t stay stuck. Jesus is knocking at the door, waiting for you to invite Him in. He is the source of life, joy, and purpose.

Let today be the day you reconnect with Him. He is ready to revive your heart and restore your passion.

Would you like prayer for this?
Drop a comment below—we’d love to stand with you! 💖✨

Or reach out for a private session or group session using the links below…

Merri Ellen Giesbrecht
www.merriellen.com
www.CoachinginFreedom.com – private sessions
www.FreedomCoachingCircle.ca – A movement of women (groups on Zoom)

Following and Trusting : Encountering God Out of the Box