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Feelings
We all have them -- emotions that invade our souls. Some are wonderful; others are awful!
There is a battle raging inside each of us. It’s a struggle between our soul (mind, will, and emotions) and our desire to live according to God’s Spirit.
We all have a soul and, naturally, we seek comfort and ease. But when we allow our feelings take charge, our choices may not align with God’s will.
For example:
“I don’t FEEL like forgiving him or her.”
“I don’t FEEL the love I felt when we were first married.”
“I don’t FEEL like getting dressed to go to church this morning.”
Only believers have the Holy Spirit – God’s Spirit living within us.
When you invited Jesus into your heart, He brought housewarming gifts – a fruit basket to help you counteract your “soulish” feelings.
Galatians 5:22–23 names the fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. These gifts are your spiritual arsenal to help you face every situation life brings.
You are not helpless. The list is complete. Through the Holy Spirit, God gives you all you need to live a worthwhile life and grow into the person you were created to be.
Believing that you have no self-control, for example, can stunt your spiritual growth. Don't leave that gift unopened! Ask the Holy Spirit to help you put it into practice.
Also, fill your mind with the wisdom of Philippians 4:8–9 taken from The Message translation:
“Summing it all up, friends, I’d say you’ll do best by filling your minds and meditating on things true, noble, reputable, authentic, compelling, gracious—the best, not the worst; the beautiful, not the ugly; things to praise, not things to curse. Do that, and God, who makes everything work together, will work you into his most excellent harmonies.”
I challenge you to live differently! Guard your mental environment. What you read, hear, and dwell on matters!
It’s been said that what you think about, you become. Your thoughts help shape your world. Get out of your own way and let the Spirit of Christ take over. You’ll be amazed how different the world around you, and your own world, can become.
Hey, listen! Your feelings are not your boss!
“But I can’t!”
Oh yes, you can! Not in your own strength, but through the power of Christ living in you!
Galatians 2:20 states, “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me.”
Blessings,
Pastor Sue
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