Feelings Are a Sweet Gift From God

Occasionally, I watch my neighbor’s dogs, Onyx and Tessa. They are large and rambunctious, so I always come armed with a spray bottle of water. It helps get them outside to do their business so I can freshen up their dishes.

When I bring them inside, I rub their bellies to their heart’s’ content. Everything is done on my terms.

Sometimes, my emotions are a lot like Onyx and Tessa. My feelings are a sweet gift from God, but they can easily overwhelm me, demanding my attention and jumping on my heart without discernment.

I like the way David leads his feelings (his soul):

Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless His holy name! Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits, who forgives all your iniquity, who heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit, who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy, who satisfies you with good so that your youth is renewed like the eagles. - Psalm 103:1-5

David commands his feelings to bless the Lord. He directs his soul to “bless the Lord.”

We should join him!

God has forgiven and saved us of our tendency to reject Him! In addition, He crowns us with love and mercy overflowing. This renews our vision to see things as they truly are. God’s love has radically changed us. Therefore, our feelings and actions should respond appropriately.

We live in a chaotic, painful and distracting world. David reminds us that God is still working. He is still in control -– not just in us, but in all creation.

The Lord has established His throne in the heavens and His kingdom rules over all. - Psalm 103:19

Blessing our Savior with you,

~Pastor Chuck