Fickle Feelings

So then those who are living the life of the flesh [catering to the appetites and impulses of their carnal nature] cannot please or satisfy God, or be acceptable to Him.

— Romans 8:8 (AMPC)

When we follow the ever-changing impulses of our carnal nature, it’s not pleasing or acceptable to God, because He wants a life for us that’s so much better. We all have times when emotions change without warning, and it is important that we learn how to handle ourselves when that happens. If we solely follow our feelings, we’ll end up making decisions and taking actions that we’ll regret later.

One day, Dave and I had several people at our house for a party, and I was energetic and felt great. The next day, though (for no apparent reason), I woke up feeling dull and a bit down emotionally. Why? What is wrong with me? Those are the first questions I asked myself. I didn’t have an answer, so I had to make a choice. I could either keep trying to figure out my odd mood and keep getting more and more confused, or I could ask God to show me what I needed to see, and go about my day, trusting Him to help me live beyond my feelings?

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I’ve learned over the years that being a stable, consistent person requires me to own my feelings instead of letting them own me. In other words, I may have them, but I cannot let them control me. Feelings are fickle. They change frequently and often without any notice. Sometimes we understand why, but much of the time we don’t. Our physical condition can also affect our emotions. When you’re feeling off, ask yourself things like: Did I get enough sleep? or Did I eat something that made me feel bad? or Is it allergy season? Our spiritual condition can also cause mood swings: Have I spent enough time with God lately? Do I have hidden sin that needs to be dealt with? Is God trying to correct me about something?

I recommend praying first to see if God reveals anything, and if He doesn’t, then stay your course. Don’t try excessively to figure out your feelings, because it will get you more and more focused on them. Trust God, ask Him to direct your steps, do what He leads you to do, and eventually you’ll start to feel better.

Prayer Starter: Father, please help me stay steady, even when my emotions are all over the place. I want to live a life that’s pleasing to You; thank You for continuing to teach me in this area. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.