One of the unspoken values of daily prayer is that it “reconnects” us with ourselves. As you probably know, it is possible to believe one thing and feel another, sometimes without even being aware of it. (We can believe that God loves us and at the same time feel very anxious or nothing at all). While faith is not ruled by feelings, neither is it God’s will for our minds and hearts to be permanently disconnected. Part of prayer’s purpose, I’m convinced, is to facilitate a daily renewal of hope and trust and courage (the feelings that God intends for us). As you pray today will you take note of the places where you are saying one thing but feeling another? Will you hold this “disconnect” up to the One who can fix it? “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience. . .” All of these are choices, true, but aren’t they also feelings?
Great, GREAT insight! That “disconnect” is ever before me.
That I appreciate and identify with this posting is an understatement. I felt as though your words were written straight to me…..re the disconnect issue between faith and feeling….. Thanks pastor for another great gem.