What You Think, You Do

What You Feel, Pause

“Call to me and I will answer you and will tell you great and hidden things that you have not known.” Jeremiah 33:3 ESV

“Feelings live on the front row of our lives like unruly children clamoring for attention.” Dallas Willard

I want to add to the above quote that feelings are also sticky, muddy and confusing.

Who’s in charge? Our minds or our feelings? I must admit, feelings are like herding cats! When I finally capture those “cats ” it’s learning how to settle and quiet them.

How I feel about something versus how I think about something are often opposed. I feel like buying the car but I know it’s too expensive. I feel like staying home but work is what puts the food on the table.

Sneaky thoughts still creep in. A spouse who is clueless about how much you do may make you feel dismissed and taken for granted. Why do evil people have so much and I have so little? Comparing situations with little information about the “evil” person? Why is this happening to me? We forget tough times come to all.

Then feelings call the shots. We can ruminate, feel sorry, shout angry words, orwe can pause, call on Him, and wait for great and hidden things we have not known. Jesus was not evil but had so little. I forget the struggles of those around me like my neighbor battling cancer or a parent with an addicted child. I forget what my spouse does for me, especially when tired. If I pause, reflect, pray and remain open, good feelings come. Opportunities to be compassionate, have authentic conversations and contribute to those in need become more relevant. We are yoked with Christ so we don’t do this alone. And He will tell us great things.

Musings

Our relationship with the Father directs and heals us and our relationships with others. If a feeling is “acting like unruly children,” it’s time for a time-out. “What is this feeling trying to tell me?” is a good place to start. Before I act, I ask: Is it true? Is it helpful? Is it kind? Simple. Difficult. But good for us and others. We have Help.

Prayer

Dear Father

Feelings are a gift from You, yet we misuse them at times. The lesson is to use our heads with our hearts and with You. Life would be so empty without feelings but You and our minds must discipline them. We know feelings like peace, joy, contentment, love, compassion and hope are also feelings we enjoy. Help us focus on these.

With gratefulness.

Amen.