How can I strengthen my faith and truly feel close to Allah?
Assalamu alaikum. I was born Muslim, but around late 2024, I got really curious about Islam, especially the Hanafi school, and started learning more. By Ramadan 2025, I began praying. But lately, I've felt so distant-like my heart isn't in it. I pray without focus, sometimes I even miss prayers, and I don't feel that connection with Allah anymore. When I think of Him, my heart feels empty, and I hate that. I make dua, but it feels fake, like I'm only asking for things when I need something. On a side note, I used to struggle with a bad habit, but I managed to quit after falling for a sister. How can I, in a halal way, gain the confidence to approach her for marriage? But mainly, how do I get close to Allah again? How do I become a better Muslim? I know Islam is the truth, but my practice is weak. JazakAllahu khair.