As humans, sometimes we wake up on the wrong side of the bed. We have days when we’re a little less patient, a little more rushed, and in general, a bit “touchier” than usual. Maybe it’s nothing new, and maybe it’s everything all at once, whatever the case — we all deal with moodiness. But, despite these mood swings, we have to decide to put faith over feelings!
Now, of course, we know it’s easier said than done. But, we have the ability to rise above what’s happening in and around us, to tap into what God has said. Do you know that regardless of what you feel, you can choose joy and self-control?
This ought to challenge the way we think about “pity parties,” too. Are we really asking for pity, or just some understanding and empathy? We all get overwhelmed at times, and it doesn’t always mean we’re irrational.
It’s okay to have your moment and allow yourself to feel.
How many times have you felt yourself grow weary and ask, “Really, God?!” He knows your heart, so expressing your frustration isn’t a sin — It’s honesty. We can learn so much about the grace and faithfulness of God when we’re real with Him about our troubles and allow the Holy Spirit to come in and comfort us. He doesn’t always relieve the pain, but He shows us how to put our faith over our feelings in those moments.
God is always with you, even when you think your prayers are hitting the ceiling. You’re being strengthened and learning how to manage your emotions. So, never be ashamed of your spiritual shortcomings! Be glad that you’re able to identify them and grow past them. No, you’ll never be perfect, and that’s okay. God wants you to lean on and acknowledge Him, and He will perfect holiness in you.
Yes, it hurts but you’re maturing.
Believe it or not, God cares about every detail of your life. He doesn’t want you to be miserable or stressed out about anything. We have to accept that there will be times of trial and times of refreshing, but we have a lot to gain from both states. 1 Peter 5:7 (TPT) reminds us to “Pour out all [our] worries and stress upon him and leave them there, for he always tenderly cares for [us].”
Renewing your thoughts with the truth about God helps you put faith over feelings and keep Him in the center of your life. When you remember how loving, sincere, and responsive He is, you’re able to come out of your moodiness. God’s promises are sobering, and His track record speaks for itself. He doesn’t allow us to take any easy routes. He’s invested in our development, and so he lets us experience discomfort temporarily to benefit us long term.
Some of those benefits include:
Strength: “So here’s what I’ve learned through it all: Leave all your cares and anxieties at the feet of the Lord, and measureless grace will strengthen you.” Psalms 5:22 (TPT). His strength is the only thing strong enough to loosen the hold that our emotions have on us.
Closeness: “Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come near to God and he will come near to you.” James 4:7-8 (NIV). When we are close to God, we are better able to resist the enemy because we have everything we need.
Victory: “I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.” 1 John 4:4 (NIV). No matter what, we WIN!
Peace: “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you. Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord, the Lord himself, is the Rock eternal.” Isaiah 26:3-4 (NIV).
Keep this in mind the next time you’re having trouble putting your faith over your feelings. Remember that God has all wisdom, and He is with you, perfecting you in Christ Jesus.
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