It’s natural to experience seasons in life where prayer feels more challenging or less engaging. The Bible acknowledges the complexity of our emotions and spiritual states. Remember, the Psalms are filled with raw, honest prayers from individuals in every possible emotional state, including boredom, frustration, and even anger towards God. Psalm 13:1-2 cries out, “How long, O Lord? Will You forget me forever? How long will You hide Your face from me? How long must I wrestle with my thoughts and day after day have sorrow in my heart?”

In moments when you feel distant or disinterested in prayer, it’s important to remember that God values honesty and desires a real relationship with you. He welcomes you to come as you are, with all your feelings and thoughts. Romans 12:12 encourages us, “Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.” This suggests that even when we’re not in the mood to pray, persisting in prayer can keep us connected to hope, develop our patience, and deepen our faith.

Furthermore, Jesus himself gave us an example of how to persist in prayer, even in times of distress or disinterest. In the Garden of Gethsemane, facing immense sorrow and dread, He prayed earnestly to the Father, showing us that it’s in our most human moments of weakness that turning to prayer can reveal strength we didn’t know we had (Matthew 26:36-44).

If you’re feeling bored and annoyed and find it hard to pray, consider starting with small, honest conversations with God. Tell Him exactly how you’re feeling. You might also try changing your prayer routine, perhaps by incorporating music, writing, or walking as you pray, to find a method that brings freshness to your practice.

Remember, the Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness and intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express (Romans 8:26). Even when you cannot find the words or the will to pray, the Spirit is praying for you, and God’s love for you remains steadfast.