Feeling distant from God

I have had Christian education from kindergarten through high school. Now I am studying at a private university with no religious affiliation. I was surprised to see how different people behaved when I first went to college. I've been through the ups and downs, but I got used to this contempt for moral behavior and Christianity. However, I've been recently feeling like God isn't here. It seems like he is so far away. I go to a nearby WELS church every Sunday, but it feels like I can only "find" God and the message of Christ there. What words of comfort can you offer me for this feeling of distance from God six days a week?

Your scenario underscores the importance of personal Bible study. Worshiping with fellow Christians on Sunday is good encouragement for Christians (Hebrews 10:25). But just as we would not expect one meal to sustain us for a week, so it is not realistic to expect one feeding from God’s gospel to carry us through the week.

What you will want to do is supplement your Sunday worship with regular Bible readings and devotions. (Perhaps you are doing that already, but that was not part of the information you provided.)

Here is where there are many resources at your disposal. This link will take you to the area of the synod’s web site where you can sign up for daily email devotions. You could look on the web sites of Martin Luther College and Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary for live-streamed and archived devotions. This link will take you to the Campus Ministry section of our synod’s web site. You can sign up there to receive materials. Finally, talk to the pastor of the congregation where you are worshiping as a student. Perhaps he knows of a WELS campus ministry that exists nearby. Or, maybe he can put you in touch with other students at your university who are united with you in faith.

Above all, keep close to God through regular reading and study of his word. Through his word the Lord will assure you of his continual presence in your life. “God has said, ‘Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you’” (Hebrews 13:5). “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age” (Matthew 28:20). Then, communicate with God through prayer.  God bless you!