Prayer Part 6: Obstacles to Prayer: Boredom

Fr. Matthias Shehad explores the challenge of boredom as a major obstacle to consistent prayer, comparing the human desire for constant newness with God's unchanging nature. He explains why repetition in prayer and liturgy can feel monotonous due to our corrupted, change-seeking nature, while God remains constant and timeless. Fr. Matthias emphasizes the importance of discipline and persistence in prayer, likening spiritual growth to steady, patient work rather than immediate excitement or novelty. He discusses the need to focus on the goal of union with God rather than seeking new methods or external changes. Drawing from Scripture and monastic teachings, Fr. Matthias highlights the ongoing spiritual struggle against the flesh and encourages perseverance in prayer as a lifelong battle toward holiness. He reminds believers that true transformation and renewal come from God changing the heart, enabling us to overcome boredom and grow closer to Him.