Over-Reliance On feelings

Over-Reliance on Feelings: A Biblical Perspective

Human beings are naturally emotional creatures. Our feelings shape much of our experience—joy, sorrow, fear, love, anger, and hope. These emotions can be powerful and often influence our decisions and worldview. However, feelings are inherently unstable and can shift rapidly based on circumstances, mental state, or even physical health. Over-reliance on feelings can become a dangerous trap, leading to confusion, poor decisions, and spiritual instability.

Why Are Feelings Unreliable?

Feelings are subjective and changeable. One moment we may feel confident and secure; the next, anxious or doubtful. When we make choices based solely on these fluctuating emotions, we risk following a path that leads away from God’s perfect plan for us.

Consider how often feelings can deceive us:

Fear and anxiety may convince us that God has abandoned us (even when He promises He never will).

Disappointment or sadness can make us feel worthless or unloved, contradicting God’s truth about our value.

Over-excitement or false hope might cause us to ignore warning signs or reality, leading to harmful decisions.

The Bible warns us against relying on our own understanding or feelings as the ultimate guide:

Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV):

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”

This verse encourages us to trust God’s wisdom above our limited, often emotional, understanding. The heart can be deceitful (Jeremiah 17:9), and leaning on feelings alone is leaning on a shaky foundation.

The Role of Faith and God’s Word

Faith is the antidote to over-reliance on feelings. Faith calls us to trust God even when we don’t “feel” like it—when life is hard, confusing, or painful. It means holding onto God’s promises and His Word as the unchanging truth, rather than our shifting emotional states.

The Psalmist writes:

Psalm 119:105 (NIV):

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”

God’s Word provides clarity and guidance when feelings are confusing or misleading. It anchors us to truth that transcends emotion.

Examples from Scripture

David’s honesty in the Psalms: David often expressed his feelings of despair, fear, and loneliness. Yet, he continually turned back to God for hope and strength (Psalm 42:11). His emotional honesty was balanced by faith.

Jesus’ example: Jesus experienced deep emotions—grief, anger, joy—but He remained obedient to the Father’s will, trusting God’s plan even in the face of suffering (Luke 22:42). He didn’t let His feelings dictate His actions.

Paul’s teaching: The Apostle Paul understood human weakness and discouragement but urged believers to fix their eyes on eternal truths rather than present feelings (2 Corinthians 4:16-18).

Practical Wisdom for Today

Acknowledge Your Feelings, But Don’t Be Controlled By Them

Feelings are important signals from our heart and mind but should be submitted to God’s truth. Ignoring emotions isn’t the goal; rather, bring them before God in prayer and seek His perspective.

Root Your Identity in Christ, Not in Your Emotional State

When feelings of inadequacy or failure arise, remember who you are in Christ. Your value and worth are grounded in God’s love, not in how you feel.

Use Scripture as a Compass

When emotions overwhelm you, read God’s Word. Scriptures like Isaiah 41:10 remind us that God is with us and will uphold us even when we feel weak.

Seek Wise Counsel

Sometimes feelings cloud our judgment. Trusted spiritual mentors, pastors, or mature believers can help bring clarity.

Pray for God’s Strength

Feelings of weakness or discouragement are common, but God’s grace is sufficient.

2 Corinthians 12:9 (NIV):

“But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.”

This shows that God’s power shines brightest when we feel weakest emotionally.

Conclusion

Over-reliance on feelings can lead to instability, doubt, and misguided choices. The Bible calls us to trust in God’s unchanging truth rather than our fluctuating emotions. By anchoring our lives in Scripture, nurturing faith, and relying on God’s promises, we gain stability and peace that surpasses circumstances. Feelings are real and important but must be held in balance by faith and God’s Word.