Sometimes it can feel as if God is leaving us on read. He hears our prayers but isn't answering. We don't even hear His peaceful silence, we just hear... nothing.

During these times of spiritual desolation, God is calling us to exercise our spiritual muscles to show love for Him

Feeling difficulty in prayer? Keep showing up. Pray the psalms, especially perhaps Psalm 22. We're allowed to feel upset and abandoned. Christ on the cross said "My God, why have you forsaken me." Express these groanings to the Lord as your prayer. And have hope in Him.

When we show up to a relationship even when it's difficult, it's an even greater show of love. Couples & friends who make it through hard times end up even deeper in love than they were before. Relationships aren't just about when it's easy & enjoyable, and it's the same w/ God.

St. John of the Cross said “God values in you an inclination to dryness and suffering for love of Him more than all possible consolations, spiritual visions, and meditations.” It is in these groanings in our hearts calling out to God that He sees our love for Him most.

It’s enjoyable to pray when it's satisfying & when we receive inspiration. But sometimes Our Lord calls us into a more difficult period so that He can draw us closer to Himself. And when love endures through difficult times, it comes out the other side all the stronger.

Something I forgot to add: a good tip for times of dryness is to think back and recall those times where we received great consolations in prayer. This is why keeping a spiritual journal can be super helpful!