Spiritual Desolation
When the Soul Feels Heavy: Walking Through Spiritual Desolation
There are seasons in life when the light feels dim, when God’s love feels distant, and when joy or contentment seem out of reach. This experience has a name in spiritual language: desolation. Like many people I have experienced this disconnection from God’s grace, it’s this overwhleling sense that nothing is right, it seems to hold power over every thought, emotions, and sense of being. Its like you identify is slipped away from you in just a moment notice — and you forget how precious, worthy you truly are. I have learned that it is vital to lean in even more to God’s Love when this time merges within our soul.
One thing I know for sure is there is alway fluctuations in the spiritual emotions and spiritual journey. We, as humans, at times feel lost and disconnected from God’s grace, love, joy and contentment. It is in these moments that spiritual growth can happen. Even in this moment as I write these words, as I lean in even more, I am more aware of God’s love for you, for me, for us — it is such a blessing to know that even in desolation — we are loved.
All the tears we have cried, all the tears we will eventually cry, over and over again— will be captured, will be kept for a beautiful testimony, that God is near. One day joy will return, one day we will see why the tears were important. It is during these times, that if led with a gracious, patient heart we will be steered closer to God. We will become even more intertwined with our purpose.
Spiritual desolation is not a sign of God abandoning us — it is a very real part of the soul’s journey. It can feel like:
A heaviness of heart
Restlessness or lack of peace
A loss of joy in prayer
A sense of being cut off from God’s presence
But here is the hope: desolation does not last forever.
Ignatius on Desolation
St. Ignatius of Loyola, in his teaching on the Discernment of Spirits, reminds us that desolation is temporary — and it is in these moments that we are invited to greater awareness.
Ignatius teaches that the enemy uses desolation to trap us in two ways:
By overpowering us with fear of the future — whispering lies like “things will never change,” or “you will always feel this way.”
By sinking us into the weight of the past — stirring regrets, guilt, or shame to keep us from stepping into God’s mercy.
The enemy thrives when we lose sight of the present moment, where God’s grace actually lives and moves.
What To Do in Times of Desolation
Ignatius offers us simple yet profound wisdom: practice examination.
This doesn’t mean harsh self-criticism, but rather pausing to notice:
What am I feeling? Name the heaviness, the disconnect, or the doubt.
Where is it coming from? Is this rooted in fear, shame, or exhaustion?
Where can I still glimpse God? Even in small ways — a smile, a breath, a sunrise, a scripture verse that clings to your heart.
By examining our hearts, we reclaim awareness — and awareness brings light into the shadows.
A Spiritual Anchor
If you are walking through desolation, remember:
It is temporary. The season will pass.
God has not left you. Even if your feelings say otherwise, His presence remains.
You are not powerless. Prayer, scripture, journaling, and stillness invite strength back into your spirit.
One of the most powerful prayers in these moments is simply:
“Lord, I cannot feel You — but I trust You are near. Help me remain faithful in the waiting.”
The Hidden Gift
Desolation can feel like the darkest part of the journey. But often, it is here — in the silence, in the absence of comfort — that our roots grow deeper. When joy returns, it is not shallow happiness, but a hard-earned faith that knows:
“God was with me, even there.”