Finding God in the Desolate Places: Hope for the Brokenhearted

There was a season not too long ago when I battled intense loneliness and unexplainable sadness. It was, ironically, a season marked by spiritual growth, abundant friendship, and fruitful ministry. Yet, I couldn’t shake the heaviness that settled over my soul—a deep, uninvited ache I couldn't explain or escape.

There was no hidden sin, no known disobedience. Just heartbreak... that seemed to be there for no reason at all.

When God Feels Distant and Joy Feels Far Away

Have you ever watched others walk in joy while you silently wondered why it felt so out of reach for you? That’s exactly where I found myself. I knew God was good. I trusted His promises. But emotionally, I felt dry. Disconnected. Alone.

Still, I tried to press into Scripture—and in doing so, I stumbled upon a revelation that helped steady my heart.

The Desolate Places of Jesus

Over and over again in the Gospels, we see Jesus retreating to what Scripture calls "desolate places" to pray:

“But Jesus often withdrew to desolate places and prayed.” — Luke 5:16
“And rising very early in the morning, while it was still dark, He departed and went out to a desolate place, and there He prayed.” — Mark 1:35
“Leaving Nazareth He went and lived in Capernaum by the sea… in the territory of Zebulun and Naphtali.” — Matthew 4:13 (desolate lands)

Here’s the powerful truth: Jesus can be found in the desolate places. Not only that—but it was in those places that He intentionally sought communion with the Father.

When You’re in a Desolate Season

Maybe you're in a desolate place right now.
Maybe it’s explainable: a death, a job loss, a relational fracture, a major life transition.
Or maybe it’s not. Maybe you’re just sad. Tired. Heavy. And you can’t figure out why.

Can I lovingly remind you of this?

Even if you don’t feel joy or zeal—or even if you don’t feel much of anything—God has not left you.

His presence does not depend on your emotional state.
As Psalm 34:18 promises:

“The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit” (ESV).

You’re in Good Company

If Jesus was found in desolate places, then you, my friend, are in good company.
You don’t have to fake joy or put on a mask. The Psalms—especially David’s—are filled with raw honesty and deep emotion. You can be honest with God in your sorrow. He welcomes your honesty.

God will meet you there.

I’m praying comfort over your heavy situation. I’m praying that the joy you may not feel right now will greet you after this grief. And I’m praying that the Spirit of the Lord will sit with you in your desolation.

This season will not be wasted.

Scriptures to Meditate On

Proverbs 14:13
John 16:20
Isaiah 53:3
Psalm 119:28
Psalm 31:9
Psalm 30:5
Psalm 126:5

Practical Ways to Seek God in the Desolate Place

Here are a few gentle action steps you can take to create space for healing and connection with the Lord:

Make a worship playlist
Choose songs that speak to the depth of your soul. Let truth and beauty wash over your heart.
Step outside
Go for a prayer walk, stretch in your yard, or sit on your porch and take in the birdsong, breeze, and sunlight. Creation reminds us of God's nearness.
Tell someone how you're really doing
A trusted friend, mentor, pastor, or your spouse. Don’t suffer in silence. You weren’t made to walk this road alone.

No matter what you’re feeling today, hold fast to this:
Jesus is near. And even in your most desolate places, you are not alone.