“Pray inwardly, even if you do not enjoy it. It does good, though you feel nothing, see nothing, yes, even though you think you are doing nothing. For when we are dry, empty, sick or weak, at such a time is your prayer most pleasing, though you find little enough to enjoy in it. This is true of all believing prayer” [Julian of Norwich, quoted in The New Encyclopedia of Christian Quotations, compiled by Mark Water (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Books, 2000)].

Julian of Norwich (1342-1417) was a 14th-century English mystic whose writings on prayer, the Passion of Christ, and other Gospel themes have inspired people for centuries. Some traditional churches commemorate her on May 8.

Christians can learn from her insight above. We might allow our feelings to govern our prayer lives. Prayer might require discipline, but if we persevere, God will bless us, even if we do not feel anything.

Let us pray without ceasing, even when we do not feel God’s presence. He is with us always.

Copyright © 2026 Michael E. Lynch. All rights reserved.