Emotions are real — but they are not ultimate.
They are signposts, not steering wheels. They tell us what matters to us, but they are not the measure of truth.
Jesus felt deeply: grief at Lazarus’ tomb, joy in the Spirit, righteous anger in the temple. But He was never overrun. He lived Spirit-led, not emotion-led.
Scripture Meditation
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.”
Read this slowly. Which word rises up in contrast to the emotion that most often carries you away? Hold it before God. Ask the Spirit: “Grow this fruit in me.”
Practice
When emotion rises, pause for three breaths. Say:
- Breath 1: “This is real.”
- Breath 2: “This is not ultimate.”
- Breath 3: “Spirit, guide me here.”
Prayer
Lord, thank You for making me a feeling person.
Teach me to listen without being enslaved.
Let Your Spirit lead my responses.