And don’t sin by letting anger control you…Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you. Ephesians 4:26,31-32

 

If you’ve ever been married, you know how feelings for your spouse can change from one day to the next.

 

Romance over candlelight gives way to real-life. The crush of caring for family, responsibilities and jobs often leave us with less than loving feelings. What a disaster it would be if feelings dictated all our actions, then.

 

Marriage calls for us to live with integrity and love regardless of how we feel that day. Just like in marriage, we’re called to keep on walking in loyal love, faithful to God, even when we’re tired or frustrated. One author expressed it this way: “It is Christ [Jesus] who is to be exalted, not our feelings. We will know Him by obedience, not by emotions. Our love will be shown by obedience, not by how good we feel about God at a given moment. And love means following the commands of God”.[1]

 

It’s a comfort to know that we can tell God how we’re feeling, and He’ll meet us with understanding and tenderness. But God is also asking us for actions of courage and obedience–actions that reach beyond our emotions to choose love.

 

The Bible says, “…don’t sin by letting anger control you…Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you” (Ephesians 4:26, 31-32).

 

Are your feelings controlling you? Ask Jesus for the courage to live with love and kindness beyond all that you’re feeling.

 

[1] Elliot, Elizabeth. “Passion and Purity: Learning to Bring Your Love Life Under Christ’s Control.” Baker Books, 2013, p. 43.