Alive and on Fire - a Video Devo With Illusionist, Dustin TavellaSample

There are times in your faith journey when everything feels exciting—worship hits different, your Bible feels alive, and you can sense God everywhere. But then, without warning, that spark fades. Suddenly, it feels like you’re just going through the motions. We often believe that if we’re not overwhelmed with positive emotions, then something must be wrong—either with our faith or with us.

If that’s you—take a breath. You’re not alone.

Even David, a man after God’s own heart, prayed for the joy of his salvation to be restored. That means he lost it from time to time, too.

Emotions are fleeting and unreliable. If we let them lead us, we can easily lose our way. Being a Christian doesn’t mean our lives will be perfect or always emotionally charged. Faith isn't about constant highs—it’s about a daily, living relationship with the Creator of the universe, who never stops loving us. God’s love isn’t based on how you feel—it’s based on who He is.

Jesus gave everything so we could live with hope in the midst of our sin and brokenness. And yes, that truth is exhilarating—but we don’t always feel it. That doesn’t make it any less real.

Tons of people in the Bible wrestled with this same stuff. That’s why it’s so important to stay plugged into community—people who will remind you who God is and what He’s done. Build rhythms in your life that keep your focus on what’s true, not just what feels good. Read your Bible. Talk to God. Show up, even when it’s hard.

And when the numbness comes—as it sometimes will—we must turn to God and ask Him to restore the joy of our salvation. Don’t ignore it. Don’t walk away. Don’t hide or give in to discouragement. You’re not alone. What you’re feeling has been felt by some of the strongest followers of God since the beginning of time.

So look up. Take a deep breath. And pray like David did:

“God, restore the joy of being saved. Remind me what I have in You. Fill my heart with gratitude. And when You stir that joy back to life in me, let it be a light that brings others back to You.”

Think About It:

• When was the last time you felt really close to God? What was different about that time?
• What are some things that help you reconnect with God when your faith feels dry?
• Have you ever talked to God honestly about feeling numb or distant? What might He be saying to you now?

Prayer You Can Pray:
God, sometimes I just don’t feel it. I know You’re real, but my heart feels flat. Please restore the joy of knowing You. Remind me of how much You love me and all You’ve done for me. Help me not to chase feelings, but to follow You with faith. Even in the silence, help me trust that You’re working. Bring me back to life on the inside. Amen.