Faith And Emotions (Part Two)

Some people confuse emotionalism with spirituality, but they are not the same thing. Emotionalism is self-centered and seeks the adoration of others. True spirituality is outward focused, and more specifically, centered on God. When a person has a true encounter with God, his emotions will be affected. However, they will not turn inward; they will turn to God. As we are to love the Lord our God with all our heart, soul, mind and strength, our emotions will reflect that love. They are part of our whole being. Instead of seeking His adoration, we adore Him. Tears of joy may flow because we encountered the Father’s presence, for in His presence is fulness of joy (see Psalms 16:11). Emotionalism embraces tears, but for much different reasons.

Those who practice emotionalism are more interested in what they feel than they are in God. The reason many “church-hop” is that they are seeking some sort of feeling. They are not seeking God Himself. When you seek God for Him alone, you will also allow Him to place you in a congregation where He desires. You will not leave it because you no longer “feel it.” The only reason to leave is that the Lord legitimately wants to plant you elsewhere. He may actually place you in a church that it is unpleasant. Why? To influence it for His Kingdom. That does not mean usurp authority or try to take it over. It means bringing the presence of the Lord with you. It means praying and interceding on its behalf. The reality is that you may be part of the answer to someone’s prayer for help. Those who practice emotionalism will only submit as long as it feels good.

Emotionalists tend to practice manipulation, some consciously and some unconsciously. Because they know the strength of emotions, they play on the emotions of others to get them to do what they want. Unfortunately, some of this has crept into the church. How many have manipulated offerings by using emotions against people? The word “against” is appropriate because it puts people into bondage. When a person appeals to the emotions, especially guilt and shame, the freewill aspect is taken away. The reason cults are so successful is that their leaders manipulate those whose emotions are out of control or damaged. They appeal to the wounded and then control them through the feelings of acceptance. These are master manipulators. Tears in a service do not necessarily mean the Holy Spirit moved people. How many have cried while watching movies and the Spirit had nothing to do with it? Emotionalism is a counterfeit of spirituality. Please understand that when the Holy Spirit truly moves in a service, people will shed tears, but their lives will also change. Emotionalism does not change people. That is why some constantly go to altar and never seem to change. They want the attention and love the feeling they get while being ministered to. When they decide to repent, you will see them less at the altar. At least they will not go up for the same reasons as before.

Those who manipulate will also be manipulated. Those deceive others are themselves deceived. 2 Timothy 3:13 But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived (KJV). Following after emotionalism can lead to a dangerous place. True faith does not work by emotions, but it does heal, lead and guide them by love. Please understand that because we are human, all of us will find ourselves caught up in emotions from time to time; however, it should be the exception, and not the rule. It is what we do with emotions that matter.

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