THE DANGER OF BEING RULED BY FEELINGS By: Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture: Romans 8:14
"For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God."
INTRODUCTION
In today’s world, many believers find themselves governed by emotions rather than faith. Feelings, though a natural part of life, can become tools of deception when they are given preeminence over the leading of the Holy Spirit. This message serves as a call to steadfastness in faith, urging believers to rise above emotional instability and be firmly anchored in the unshakable truth of God's Word.
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FAITH VS. FEELINGS: UNDERSTANDING THE DIFFERENCE
2 Corinthians 5:7 "For we walk by faith, not by sight."
Faith is a firm trust in God’s Word regardless of external circumstances or internal emotions. Feelings, on the other hand, are subject to change and can be easily manipulated by the enemy. A believer who depends on emotions is vulnerable to spiritual instability, while one who stands on faith remains unshaken.
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THE DANGERS OF EMOTIONALISM IN CHRISTIAN LIVING
Proverbs 28:26 "He that trusteth in his own heart is a fool: but whoso walketh wisely, he shall be delivered."
Feelings can deceive and lead to destructive decisions. Many have committed grievous sins because they acted based on fleeting emotions. Anger, jealousy, lust, and fear have caused countless people to turn away from God's path.
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DIVINE GUIDANCE: THE ROLE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT
John 16:13 "Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth."
God does not intend for His children to be governed by emotions. Instead, He has given us the Holy Spirit to be our guide. Those who are led by the Spirit will not be easily swayed by the tides of emotion but will stand firm in their divine calling.
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THE EXAMPLE OF JESUS: OVERCOMING HUMAN FEELINGS
Matthew 26:39 "And he went a little farther, and fell on his face, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt."
Jesus, in His humanity, felt the weight of suffering but did not allow emotions to dictate His obedience. Even in great distress, He surrendered to the Father’s will, setting an example for us to follow.
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THE CALL TO SPIRITUAL STRENGTH AND MATURITY
Hebrews 10:23 "Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised)."
Believers must grow in faith and not allow emotions to control their actions. Stability in faith is necessary for spiritual growth and effective service in God’s Kingdom.
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SUMMARY
Faith is a steadfast trust in God, while feelings are ever-changing and unreliable. Those who live by emotions risk being deceived and led astray. However, those who live by faith will remain firm, regardless of circumstances.
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CONCLUSION
We are called to be people of faith, not victims of fluctuating emotions. By relying on the Holy Spirit, we can overcome the deception of feelings and walk in the truth of God’s Word.
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THE CALL TO ACTION
Choose today to walk by faith and not by feelings. Surrender your emotions to God and allow the Holy Spirit to guide your steps. Meditate on His Word daily, and seek His wisdom in every decision.
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FINAL WORD OF ENCOURAGEMENT
God has not called you to a life of emotional instability but to a life of faith, power, and victory. Trust in Him, and He will establish your path. Be strong, for the Lord your God is with you.
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SALVATION PRAYER
If you have not yet surrendered your life to Jesus, today is the day of salvation. Pray this prayer sincerely from your heart:
Lord Jesus, I come before You today acknowledging that I am a sinner in need of Your grace. I believe that You died for my sins and rose again on the third day. I ask You to come into my life, be my Lord and Savior, and guide me by Your Spirit. I surrender all to You. Thank You for saving me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
