If survivors of relational trauma could set a relationship status with God, many would quietly choose: “It’s complicated.” Because trust, even with God, can take time to rebuild. We may long for closeness, yet also carry hurt, confusion, or even anger toward God. This tension is more common than many realize. It often shows up when life experiences shake the way we’ve known and trusted the Divine.
The truth is, feeling unsafe or unsure with God does not mean you’ve failed spiritually. Wounds in life can shape how we see and experience God. At times, this may look like distance; at other times, it can feel like confusion, disillusionment, or even a breach of trust.
That’s why we created a couple of FREE printable activities.
- The first is “My Safety Map With God.” It’s a simple, visual way to explore your personal sense of safety in your connection with God and feelings of safety or un-safety. Using two overlapping circles, you’ll identify:
- What feels safe.
- What feels unsafe or unclear.
- What feels mixed—both safety and uncertainty.
- Answer some leading questions for observations
2. Second is “My Lament To God.” This reflective writing guide walks participants through the biblical pattern of lament (found in books like Psalms and Lamentations) in a way that welcomes all beliefs. You’ll explore four stages—turning toward God, pouring out your complaint, asking for help, and expressing trust or hope. The activity offers prompts and space to create your own lament, helping you bring your honest thoughts and emotions into your spiritual process.
Rebuilding trust with God is rarely a quick or linear process—it often unfolds slowly over time. These activities are not about forcing a particular feeling or rushing toward resolution. Instead, they provide a safe space for participants to be fully honest about where they are, to give voice to their pain, and to gently notice where healing might begin. Whether someone’s connection with God feels close, distant, or somewhere in between, their story matters—and it is worth exploring with compassion.
To hear more about relationship with God being complicated, Listen to the Relational Trauma SOS podcast S2 E7: Hello God. It’s me. Are you there?