Walk By Faith Not By Feelings

The phrase “Walk by faith, not by feelings” encapsulates a vital principle in the Christian life: that our trust in God and our obedience to Him should not be based solely on how we feel, but on the unshakable truth of who God is and what He has promised. Emotions are powerful and often fluctuate, but faith in God is the steady anchor that holds us firm, no matter the storms we face.

In a world that often encourages us to follow our emotions, it can be difficult to live out this principle. We may feel overwhelmed by doubt, fear, or discouragement, but God calls us to trust Him regardless of our emotions. This doesn't mean ignoring or suppressing our feelings, but rather choosing to rely on God's truth and His promises, even when our feelings don’t align.

Why Walking by Faith and Not Feelings is Crucial

1. Feelings are Unpredictable

One of the challenges of living by feelings is that they are fleeting and unpredictable. One moment we may feel on top of the world, and the next, we may feel lost or hopeless. Emotions can be influenced by external circumstances, our physical state, or even the thoughts we entertain. As a result, basing our trust in God solely on how we feel leads to instability.

Scripture Reference: Jeremiah 17:9 says, "The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it?" This verse reminds us that our emotions and feelings can often deceive us or lead us astray. They are not always trustworthy guides.

2. Faith is Steady and Unchanging

Unlike our feelings, faith in God is based on something eternal and unchanging—the character of God and His promises. God’s Word remains constant, and His faithfulness is unwavering, regardless of our emotional state. Walking by faith means that we rely on what God has said, trusting in His unchangeable nature, even when our emotions tell us otherwise.

Scripture Reference: Hebrews 13:8 says, “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” This assures us that, no matter how we feel, the truth of God’s promises never changes.

3. God Calls Us to Walk by Faith

Throughout Scripture, God encourages His followers to walk by faith, not by sight or feelings. Faith is an active choice to trust God and live according to His Word, even when circumstances or emotions seem to contradict it. When we choose to walk by faith, we demonstrate that we believe in God’s sovereignty and His ultimate good plan for our lives.

Scripture Reference: 2 Corinthians 5:7 says, “For we live by faith, not by sight.” This highlights that our focus should not be on what we see or feel, but on trusting in God's promises.

How to Walk by Faith, Not by Feelings

Walking by faith and not by feelings doesn’t mean denying our emotions, but it does mean placing our trust in God above our emotional responses. Here are practical ways to walk by faith:

1. Focus on God’s Truth, Not Your Feelings

When you're feeling overwhelmed or uncertain, remind yourself of the truths in God’s Word. His promises can provide peace and stability, no matter what you’re feeling. The more you immerse yourself in Scripture, the more God’s truth will shape your perspective and guide your decisions.

Practical Tip: When emotions are running high, take time to read Bible verses that speak to your situation. Verses like Isaiah 41:10 (“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God”) or Philippians 4:6-7 (“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God”) remind you of God's presence and peace.

2. Choose to Trust in God’s Faithfulness

Walking by faith means choosing to trust in God’s faithfulness, even when our feelings suggest otherwise. There will be times when you don’t feel like God is near or that His promises are true. In those moments, remind yourself that God has never broken a promise, and He is with you, even when you don't feel it.

Scripture Reference: Lamentations 3:22-23 says, "Because of the Lord's great love we are not consumed, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness."

3. Act on What You Believe, Not What You Feel

Faith is not just a passive belief but an active trust in God that leads to action. When you choose to walk by faith, you act in accordance with God’s Word, regardless of how you feel. For example, if you feel fear about a particular situation, walking by faith means choosing to step forward, trusting that God is with you and will provide what you need.

Scripture Reference: James 2:26 says, “As the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without deeds is dead.” Living out your faith, even in the face of fear or doubt, demonstrates your trust in God’s power and provision.

4. Pray for Strength and Guidance

Prayer is a powerful tool in walking by faith. When your feelings are strong or overwhelming, praying can help you refocus on God’s promises and His character. Ask God for strength to trust Him even when you don’t feel like it, and for wisdom to see the situation from His perspective.

Scripture Reference: Mark 9:24 says, "Immediately the boy’s father exclaimed, ‘I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!’" Even in moments of doubt, God is compassionate and willing to help us strengthen our faith.

5. Remember Past Experiences of God’s Faithfulness

When you find yourself struggling to trust God, remember times when He has been faithful in your life. Reflecting on past experiences of His provision, protection, and love can help you build trust in Him for the present and future.

Practical Tip: Keep a journal of answered prayers, blessings, or moments when you clearly felt God’s presence. Revisit these moments when your faith feels weak, as they can serve as a reminder that God is trustworthy, even when feelings fluctuate.

Overcoming Doubts and Walking in God’s Peace

It’s normal to have moments of doubt or feel like you’re not in the "right mindset" to walk by faith. However, choosing to live by faith, not by feelings, means embracing God's truth over your fluctuating emotions. By trusting God’s faithfulness, acting on His Word, and relying on prayer, you can experience peace that transcends your feelings.

Scripture Reference: Philippians 4:7 says, “And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” This peace doesn’t depend on how you feel but on trusting in God’s presence and His sovereign care over your life.

Conclusion: Living by Faith, Not Feelings

"Walking by faith, not by feelings" means choosing to trust God’s truth and His promises even when our emotions or circumstances suggest otherwise. It’s about surrendering control to God and walking forward, confident that He will guide and provide, no matter what we’re feeling. Faith is the steady foundation that doesn’t change with every emotional tide—it’s anchored in the unchanging character of God.

Next Step: If you're feeling overwhelmed, take a moment to pray and ask God to help you walk by faith, not by feelings. Choose to trust His promises, and let His peace guard your heart and mind.