Counsels on Self-Identity

Counsel #16 — An Unchanging God

Picture: Counsel #16 — An Unchanging God CI 174.1

There will be days when your emotions feel completely out of sync with what you believe, with what you know. Sometimes, you may wake up feeling numb, anxious, or discouraged, and wonder where God is in it all. You’re not alone in that experience. But while feelings are real, you can’t always trust them. CI 174.2

Your emotions can shift based on circumstances, hormones, or exhaustion, so you never want to trust feelings that aren’t authored or influenced by the Holy Spirit. Sometimes we trust our feelings more than God’s promises, but Scripture calls us to cast our burdens on Him even when we don’t feel like it. Instead of judging your faith by how you feel, lean into the truth of who God is. He’s still working when your heart is heavy, and He’s still present when your emotions cloud your judgment. That’s what makes faith so powerful! It holds onto hope even when hopeful feelings fade. This doesn’t mean ignoring your emotions; it means not letting them drive your decisions or define your worth. God welcomes your tears, confusion, and silence, and He promises to carry it all.^[190] CI 174.3

“Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken.” Psalms 55:22 NIV CI 174.4

“Cast your burden and yourself upon Him.” Ellen White in Our High Calling, p. 64 CI 174.5

Reflect: Are you letting your emotions skew your view of God, or are you letting God inform your emotions through His truth? CI 174.6