When you grow up in the mountains, faith feels like a breeze through the pines—natural, unhurried, ever-present. But when you’re living in the middle of a fast-paced, crowded city, faith starts to look different. It takes more intention. More stillness in the chaos. More courage to keep your heart soft when everything around you is loud, hard, and distracted.

I learned this the hard way. Moving from the peaceful Appalachian hills to a place where horns honk more than birds sing, it meant I had to fight for my spiritual routine—and cling to God tighter than ever before.

1. Let Go of the Idea That Worship Has to Look a Certain Way

Back home, church was simple: Sunday mornings, potluck dinners, piano hymns, and altar calls. But in the city, Pentecostal churches are hard to find—especially in a place dominated by Catholic tradition. At first, I felt lost. Out of place. But I had to realize that worship isn’t about the building—it’s about the connection. So I stopped focusing on what I didn’t have and leaned into what I did: the ability to worship God anywhere, anytime.

2. Build a Personal Sunday Rhythm

These days, my Sundays look a little different. I pull up my hometown church online and listen in with a warm cup of coffee. I spend time journaling devotions. Sometimes I go on walks and pray under my breath for the people I pass. And often, I end the day in deep intercessory prayer—standing in the gap for others and crying out to God when the city won’t quiet down. It’s not what I was used to, but it’s still sacred.

3. Create Sacred Space in the Chaos

In a noisy apartment or a busy subway ride, you can still make space for God. I’ve learned to turn moments of frustration—like long lines or traffic delays—into pockets of prayer. I still my soul in the evenings reminding myself that God is near and that He is able. I also carry a verse in my pocket or on my phone’s lock screen to keep my eyes on eternity.

4. Embrace the Fact That You’re a Light in a Different Kind of Darkness

When you come from a place where almost everyone shares your values, it’s easy to feel like you’re just part of the crowd. But here? In the city? Your faith stands out. And that’s not a bad thing. In fact, it might be exactly what someone else needs to see. Whether you’re sharing a quiet word, offering kindness in a moment of tension, or simply choosing to love your enemies—your light matters.

5. Don’t Give Up Just Because It’s Hard

I’ll be honest—it’s not easy. But anything that strengthens your faith is worth it. Being grounded in God doesn’t depend on where you live; it depends on how deeply you’re rooted in Him. And He’s just as present in the sirens as He is in the stillness.

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If this post encouraged you or made you nod in agreement, I’d love your support. Every little tip through Buy Me a Coffee helps me keep sharing these reflections and living out this faith-filled, in-between life—from dirt roads to city lights. 💛