How Does Faith in God Affect Our Emotions?Sample

The Christian emotional life is shaped in response to God’s character

When God passed before Moses, He proclaimed, “The Lord, the Lord, a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness, keeping steadfast love for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin, but who will by no means clear the guilty...” (Exodus 34:6-7 ESV)

These verses reveal Who God is and what His character is like. Throughout history, people have experienced that God is indeed merciful, gracious, slow to anger and full of love. Countless Bible stories provide examples of this. At the same time, He executes justice and punishes the guilty. He does not tolerate evil.

Knowing God like this shapes the believer’s emotional life. Knowing God’s mercy and grace leads to inner peace and joy. Being loved by God stirs our hearts to express love for Him and for people around us. Experiencing His faithfulness nourishes our hope. Knowing that God will punish the guilty helps us to let go of our anger over injustice (since He will take care of it) and exhorts us not to continue sinning ourselves. The fact that God is good and almighty, calms our fears in times of trouble.

In Psalm 100, we are reminded that the Lord is God, that He is our Creator, and that His steadfast love endures forever. These truths give reason for joy, gladness, thanksgiving and praise.

If you are struggling with your emotions, try to read Psalm 100 slowly and carefully and let these truths sink in. This may not provide a ‘quick fix’, but repeatedly reminding yourself of God’s character surely will surely shape your emotional life!