Staying Faithful in the Darkness: Holding On to Hope When You Can’t See the Light

There are moments in life when faith feels like an uphill battle. We may find ourselves crying out to God, longing to hear His voice or feel His presence, only to be met with silence. These dark seasons can be heavy, filled with uncertainty, and often leave us questioning if God is truly there.

I find myself in one of these seasons right now. The stillness feels overwhelming, and at times, I wonder if God has forgotten me. I pray, I seek, but often, I’m left feeling as though I am fumbling in the dark. It’s a space of confusion and, at times, doubt—yet deep within me, I know He is still there. He has not abandoned me, even though I struggle to see the light.

Learning about Mother Teresa's journey through her spiritual darkness has been both comforting and eye-opening. This remarkable woman, who inspired the world through her work with the poorest of the poor, lived with an inner void for many years, feeling disconnected from the very God she devoted her life to. She described her experience as living in darkness, where she could not sense God’s presence, yet she pressed on faithfully, knowing that despite her feelings, He was with her all along.

Her story is a profound reminder that faith is not about always feeling connected to God, but rather trusting that He remains by our side even in the silence. This doesn't take away the pain or struggle, but it shifts our perspective. When we look to Christ, we realize that even He experienced moments of deep anguish and separation, like on the cross when He cried, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" (Matthew 27:46). And yet, God’s plan for salvation was unfolding through that very moment of suffering.

In this season, I cling to the knowledge that God’s promises hold firm, even when I can't see the evidence of them around me. Though the waiting is hard and the darkness weighs heavy, I remember that He has a purpose in this season. It may not look the way I imagined, and it may not be in my timing, but His presence is woven through even the toughest moments. My tears, my frustrations—they are not wasted. They are known by the One who loves me beyond measure. 

For anyone else in this waiting period, struggling to hear God or feel His presence, know that you are not alone. Hold on to hope, even if it feels like you are holding on by a thread. Remember Mother Teresa’s life of perseverance in faith despite her inner struggles. God is faithful, and He is with us, even in the darkest valleys. We may not feel Him, but we can rest in the assurance that He is working in ways we cannot yet see.

So, I press forward, with faith that this darkness will not last forever. God’s light will break through, even if it takes longer than I expected. Until then, I will keep trusting, keep praying, and keep holding on to the promise that He has never left my side.

Heavenly Father, in this season of darkness, when Your voice seems far away and I struggle to feel Your presence, help me to hold on to the hope that You are still with me. Just as You walked with Mother Teresa in her long years of spiritual dryness, I trust that You are walking with me now. Give me strength to endure this time with faith, even when it feels like I am walking through the wilderness. Help me to remember that Your love never leaves me, and that Your light will eventually break through the darkness. I surrender this time of waiting to You, knowing that You will guide me to where I need to be. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.