A few weeks ago while reminiscing with two college friends, I was informed that there are two types of women in the world—those who are “steady Eddie’s” and those who are not. I fall into the latter category. While “steady Eddie” was a new term for me, I’m quite familiar with labels such as hypersensitive, high maintenance, and moody. Now, I prefer descriptors such as emotionally attuned, responsive, and tender- hearted. However, in my heart, I know these adjectives all mean the same thing—I wear my feelings on my sleeve.
When I look at Scripture, I’m drawn to melancholy characters like me. I can relate to Moses striking a rock, Elijah hiding in fear, and Jonah sulking about a plant.
Of late, I’ve been challenged by the story of Cain. Cain was a man who knew strong emotions, particularly jealousy and anger when God accepted his brother’s sacrifice and rejected his own. In Genesis 4:6, God confronts Cain about his emotional state. “Then the Lord said to Cain, ‘Why are you angry? And why has your countenance fallen?’” Then, in verse 7, God offers both a remedy and warning to the emotionally afflicted man. “If you do well, will not your countenance be lifted up? And if you do not do well, sin is crouching at the door; and its desire is for you, but you must master it.”
When my emotions flare up, God’s words to Cain remind me:
Right actions lead to more positive emotions. In spite of how I feel, I have a choice about how I respond. I might need time to think about the situation at hand. However, in the moment, I can choose to “do well.” For me, “doing well” can mean reciting a memory verse (Ps. 119:50), going for a walk (I Tim. 4:8a), listing what I’m thankful for (I Thess. 5:18), or simply going to bed (Ps. 127:2b). All these responses are God honoring and countenance lifting.
Initial sinful reactions can lead to mastery by stronger sins. In the heat of the moment, it is easy to follow the momentum of my emotions, a catapult that often leads me straight into sin. God’s challenge is to put on the brakes. If I don’t, God warns that sinful strongholds await. Ever had your feelings hurt, chosen not to forgive, and then wondered how your heart became so hardened and bitter? Such is the nature of sin—a single indulgence can lead to a stronghold. Master sin quickly, and it will be easier to conquer. Let it linger, and it will master you.
God, today, I thank you that “…You, O Lord, are a shield about me, My glory, and the One who lifts my head” (Psalm 3:3). Give me the courage to do what is right even when it doesn’t feel right.
Has God created you to feel deeply? Can you think of a time you’ve responded biblically in spite of strong emotions? I’d like to hear your story.
Ashley Davis is in a year of new beginnings. She married in June and is the proud bride of Andrew Davis. A graduate of Union University, she called Jackson home for eight years before marrying and moving to Nashville this past year. She’s grateful for the written word and feels it is a powerful tool to help her reflect on God’s truth and process the twists and turns of life.
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Aug 21, 2008