We are a spirit, a soul, and a body. Our spirit is to take lead over our soul - our mind and emotions, and definitely over our body or flesh, which too often gravitates to what every feels good (or tastes good).
When we let our spirit be trained in how to think, how to respond, how to act, then when our emotions want to go to places they shouldn't such as offense, discouragement, depression, loneliness, self-pity, etc., we can let our spirit redirect those emotions to follow the instruction and promise of God's Word. He always lifts us to a better place.
The next verse, First Thessalonians 5:24, says, "Faithful is He who calls you, and He also will bring it to pass." Isn't it interesting that the Lord talks about us being a spirit, soul, and body and follows up talking about peace and how God is faithful and will bring things to pass?
He wants us to be complete. He wants us to be in peace and He wants us to trust Him and remain in faith. In order to be led by your spirit - your spirit following the Holy Spirit, you must be in faith.
True faith, faith in God and faith in His promises alone will get rid of fear and unbelief. True heart faith only comes through letting the Lord reveal His Word and His promises to your heart.
They are the beginning of becoming "strong in the Lord and the power of His might." They are the source of developing emotional stability. They are the key to leaving emotional instability behind.
We all learned simple math early in school didn't we? Let me give you a truth that is the same as simple math. It's as solid as a mathematical equation. Are you ready? Here we go. Your expectation equals your faith.
Now chew on that. Your expectation will reveal exactly where you faith is. Is it important to know where your faith is? Absolutely!
The Bible says that without faith it's impossible to please God and that faith is what God responds to. So, concerning your faith...you are either in it or your not. You are either in faith in what God promises or you are in unbelief, believing what fearful things the devil would like you to believe. Unbelief toward God will hinder the answer to your prayers.
So what is your expectation? Just listen to your mouth for a while, you will find out. Whether you like it or not, your mouth eventually spills your expectation.
If you are all over the map instead of faith and trust in God, then your emotions are also probably all over the map. If you are strong in trusting God, your emotions are also probably steady as she goes.
Don't put your faith in imagination or simply what you hope. Find out what promises God is speaking to you and when you do, stand strong on them. Pray them. Thank God for them.
When you feel the devil trying to cause you to waver, declare them out loud and rebuke and resist the devil in Jesus name. You will become stable and a person of faith!
All rights reserved. Used by permission.
Timothy Burt is a pastor, author, and writer. He is best known as the author of Fresh Manna, a daily devotional and online Bible study.
