Renovation of the Heart Session 7: Transformation of our Feelings

Introduction When we greet each by saying “How are you?” what answers do we expect? Give me some examples.

Questions (10) How would you define “feelings”? Why do we have feelings? Why did God give us feelings? How can feelings be good? How can feelings be bad? How do feelings show themselves? Should you always do or express what you feel? Why or why not?

Defining Feelings They are a range of things that are felt: – Sensations: itch, pain, hungry, warm, cold, itchy, sleepy, dizzy, sensual urges, comfort – Emotions: loneliness, homesick, jealousy, fear, happy, sad, angry – Desires: Power, accomplishment, sexual urges, learning, relationships, God What we experience through our feelings can effect us, whether good or bad.

The Power of Feelings Feelings can be good servants but disastrous masters. (They are good and bad) Feelings can cloud the mind and taint your eyes (moodiness) Feelings grow if left unresolved (example- mistreated) Feelings spread among groups (nations, families, churches) – pride, joy, hatred, hopelessness, hope

The Power of Feelings Addiction develops from the passionate pursuit of putting good feelings back into life, when life’s purpose has been lost. This can manifest itself as a pursuit of a “rush” in an otherwise feelings-deprived life or as an “escape” from bad feelings. Examples of addictions?

The Power of Feelings Feelings are a very real part of who we are that must be understood and controlled or they will control us By “control” I do not mean suppress or deny feeling but to control how we react to the feelings that we do have, which in turn can than effect our feelings. This is what the Bible speaks of as “self- control”

Feelings and Proverbs (20) “Hatred stirs up dissension, but love covers over all wrongs.” (10:12) “A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.” (17:22) “He who loves pleasure will become poor; whoever loves wine and oil will never be rich.” (21:17) “Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the LORD is kept safe.” (29:25)

Jesus and Feelings 27 “You have heard that it was said, ‘Do not commit adultery.’ 28 But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart. 29 If your right eye causes you to sin, gouge it out and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to be thrown into hell. 30 And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to go into hell. 25 “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes?”

Self-Control The biblical answer for dealing with bad feelings is one characteristics of the fruit of the Spirit, “self-control.” (Gal 5:25) 22 “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. 24 Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires.” –Gal 5:22-23

Paul and Feelings (Phil 4:4-13) 4 “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5 Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. 8 Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. 9 Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.”

Paul and Feelings (Phil 4:4-13) 10 I rejoice greatly in the Lord that at last you have renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you have been concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. 11 I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. 12 I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. 13 I can do everything through him who gives me strength.”

Questions Do we trust in Jesus enough to truly give us emotional strength when we need it most? Do we truly believe that we can be content through any situation in life? Can we, through the work of the Spirit, truly have self-control over our feelings and emotions? What do you tend to trust in when your feelings are less than joyful? (God, alcohol, drugs, medication, entertainment, sleep, sex, shopping, pleasure, etc.)

Transformation of our Feelings (35) Vision: To trust in Christ that he will give you the strength to be content in all circumstances by better controlling your feelings. Intend: Do you really believe that this is what you need to do? Yes or No

Transformation of our Feelings Means: If Yes, What do you need to do to make God’s vision a reality in you? – Honestly access your feelings (resentment, past hurt, current biases, hatred) and be real about how you are dealing with them currently. – Pray that God will reveal to you your misplaced feelings. – Journal/discuss your feelings with others. – If you find discontentment, pray that God will help to replace your current feelings with content feelings. Focus on the themes of hope, peace, and love. Read Scriptures focusing on these themes.