Even When I Don’t Feel It

Have you ever shown up to rehearsal—or even a Sunday service—and just… not felt it?

You want to feel connected. You want to feel engaged. But you’re numb.

Disengaged.
Distracted.

And it’s not always because life is falling apart. Sometimes, everything’s fine—and you still feel nothing.

So what do you do when the feelings aren’t there?

We know worship isn’t about feelings—but feelings are part of what makes worship intimate and real. Worship is always personal. God doesn’t want worship; He wants worshippers. Sons and daughters. A relationship.

He’s not looking for the songs.

He’s looking for you.

That’s why it feels off when you go through the motions. You’re not a factory worker cranking out spiritual products. You’re a child of God, and He’s already present.

The real question is:

Will you show up?

Why Don’t I Feel It?

Sometimes the disconnect is emotional. Sometimes it’s spiritual.

But often, it’s relational.

Maybe you haven’t had a moment with the Lord lately—not even a quick “Hi, I see You” in the middle of the day. Maybe you’ve been so caught up in serving for Him, that you’ve stopped spending time with Him.

I used to sit under the stars at camp and feel wonder as I imagined God wrapping the cosmos around Him like a winter coat.

That awe connected me. I remembered how big He is—how vast and yet how close.

Sometimes you have to stir your affection by remembering.

What first moved you about God? His kindness? His glory? His patience?

In Revelation, Jesus says, “Return to your first love.” (Revelation 2:4)

That’s not a command to try harder—it’s an invitation to remember.

Let your history with God define your present.

Feelings often follow perspective.

“Oh right… this is who He is.”

The Way Back Is Always Open

The world says, “Just push through.”

But this isn’t about grit—it’s about grace.

If you’re numb, offended, or disillusioned, ask Him to reveal Himself again.

Revisit the places where you last saw Him clearly.

See Him (revelation)
Respond.

That response is worship.

Just like the response to looking at the sun is to squint. It’s instant.
So, don't worry about your response; just look to the Son.

And maybe worship isn’t just about how we feel when God shows up—

but how God feels when we show up.

That truth alone can break the fog.
You showing up—even tired, even distracted—matters deeply to Him.

Showing up for the family dinner - even when we are preoccupied with life matters to those who love us.

Can You Lead When You Don’t Feel Like It?

Yes. And God understands.

But don’t settle there.

Worship isn’t performance—it’s presence.

You don’t need to be happy or sad or hyped up.

You just need to be present.

That’s what He’s after. And He’s already waiting.

And when shame whispers, “You shouldn’t be up here,”

Say this to yourself:

“I will not let what’s wrong with me stop me from worshiping what’s right about God.”

He’s not disappointed in your struggle.

He’s drawing near—inviting you back.

Final Thought

Even when you don’t feel it, you’re not disqualified.

But don’t ignore the disconnection either.

Because there’s always a way back.

And He’s not looking for perfect worship.

Just look up at Him. Just that weak glance moves His heart. (Song of Solomon 4:9)

He’s looking for you.