For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Hebrews 4:12, NIV

 

I often reflect on seasons of my life and wish I had understood the power of God’s Word over my thoughts, emotions, and ultimately, my heart. Oh, how much unnecessary pain I would have been spared!

 

Our feelings and emotions often stem from our perception of a situation. As a result, our hearts become filled by what we believe to be true, simply because it is how we feel.

 

Here’s how it often unfolds: something does not work out the way we planned or hoped it would. Disappointment sets in, and negative thoughts flood our minds – an easy foothold for the enemy. Before long, we start believing that we have failed, that nothing ever works out for us, or it is beyond repair. Eventually, hopelessness signs a lease and makes itself comfortable in the deepest corners of our hearts.

 

Thank God for his Word, which stands as truth over every lie the enemy has ever conjured.

 

Hebrews 4:12 reminds us that the Word of God is living, active, and sharper than a double-edged sword. It pierces straight through deception and exposes truth.

 

You feel like you have failed but Scripture says you are more than a conqueror. (Romans 8:37) You feel like you fall short, but God calls you complete in Christ. (Colossians 2:10) You feel like you cannot go on – yet his Word says you can do all things through him. (Philippians 4:13) You feel lost – yet God assures you that he will direct your path and order your steps. (Proverbs 3:5-6; Psalm 37:23)

 

In therapy, we are taught to identify our feelings. This is helpful – it brings awareness and helps us make sense of our realities so that we can adjust our perspectives and behaviours. But as children of God, we have an even greater weapon: the Word of God, which reaches into the deepest places of our hearts and destroys every lie that contradicts his truth.

 

If we do not study God’s Word, hide it in our hearts, and keep it ready on our lips, we will struggle to discern truth from deception.

 

Just because you feel it does not make it true. What God says about it – that is the truth.

 

Prayer: Dear God, when I am overwhelmed by negative feelings and emotions, help me to be quick to declare your truth instead. May I never be ruled by what I feel, but instead, by what you say. Amen