We were made in the image of God.(Gen. 1:27 “So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.”)
Similar to God, we too are triune beings (three-in-one): we live in a body to connect with the world, have a soul to connect with others, and a spirit to connect with God. (1 Thessalonians 5:23 “May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless…”)
Our soul is made up of three things: our mind, our emotions, and our will.
According to research, there are about 27 emotions we can experience. These emotions include admiration, adoration, aesthetic appreciation, amusement, anger, anxiety, awe, awkwardness, boredom, calmness, confusion, craving, disgust, empathic pain, entrancement, excitement, fear, horror, interest, joy, nostalgia, relief, romance, sadness, satisfaction, sexual desire, and surprise.
Feelings are great for providing information, but they serve as a poor foundation. They shift so frequently and are unstable. (Just notice how your mood changes from before to after your first sip of coffee in the morning!)
Ephesians 5:18 Be filled with the Spirit.
Romans 8:14 For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God.
Big idea: Whatever you are full of, you will be led by.
One example of someone who felt his emotions deeply but led them rather than being led by them was David.
Ps 42:11 “Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.”
Notice that he didn’t ignore his emotions; he simply refused to let them lead him.
Next time you feel like you’re being led by your feelings, do this:
Listen to the Lord:
When your soul feels downcast, disturbed, or anxious, pause to listen to God’s Word. Let Scripture quiet the storm of emotions, reminding you of God’s unwavering presence.Lean on His Promises:
Rather than letting shifting feelings dictate your state of mind, anchor your hope in God’s promises. Trust that His faithfulness is greater than any temporary emotion.Lift Your Heart in Praise:
Choose to redirect your focus from discouragement to worship. Even in moments of distress, lift your heart in praise, affirming your trust in God as your Savior and guide.Let the Spirit Lead:
Surrender your emotions to the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Allow Him to transform and direct your feelings so that they align with God’s truth and purpose.
When we are really going through it, it can be hard to remain hopeful and see a way out; but it’s in those moments that it is so important to separate what I FEEL from what I KNOW.
I feel lonely, but I know you are with me.
I feel weak, but I know you are my strength.
I feel anxious, but I know you hold my future.
What stood out to you in today's devotional? I'd love to hear your thoughts—please share in the comments below!
