I've gotten this question a couple of times and sometimes, I have found myself asking it... First things first, let go of the guilt. Guilt is NOT of God. If it lasts more than 5-15 seconds, that's the devil playing games with you. Holy guilt leads you to repentance, if it's keeping you FROM returning then it's not of God.
So you have been away for too long.. or maybe it's a week, a few days, however long it is. Remind yourself that God loves it when you come back. Forreal. When I find myself wanting to reach out but afraid and ashamed that I have to say "I'm sorry" for the one thousandth time, I remind myself that He wants me back. Like His hands are literally wide open waiting to receive you. God yearns for your presence.
So how do I start? Well it depends.
When it's a few days I find that I just go on my knees, with a bit of shame on my face but a hopeful heart because God doesn't disappoint. There are times I wouldn't pray for a whole week, kneel down and find His presence resting over me. Like I never left. I don't know if this is just me but I like to believe there is special grace upon my life. And I keep up, we can't be falling off every few weeks, there should be levels to thisssssss.
When it's been a while, weeks or so, we should really try to avoid this.
Start by listening to sermons on Youtube, slowly begin to replace whatever music you've been listening to with some worship music. Begin to visit your Bible app a lot more. Check out that online devotional you haven't visited in a while. The longer you have been away, the harder it is to return; these preparatory steps are to slowly start transforming your mind and putting your spirit in lead. They serve to counteract those lies the devil is probably feeding you that you are too ruined to return. Feed yourself with the right things and when you are able to, fall on your knees. Actually, you might find yourself prostrating on the floor because you are genuinely sorry for neglecting Abba for that long. And if there's a sin that you have committed that keeps bothering you, start confessing immediately (I suggest Psalms 51). We are humans and God's love is unconditional, He will receive you with welcoming arms. (All this is said with the assumption that you didn't stop attending church services. If you did, boyyyy that is the first step, start going to church again.)
Now, please, please... I beg you in the name of God. Stop running away. Remain here. I'm sure you already know this is the only place there is joy, peace and happiness. Remain here.
Watch out for next post on how to stay in His Presence.
Stay Grateful!