Our culture loves to say, “follow your heart,” but the Bible warns that “the heart is deceitful above all things.” Feelings can be beautiful gifts, yet they are unreliable guides. If our faith rises and falls on emotion alone, we will be tossed about by every high and low.

The Psalms show that emotions belong in a healthy relationship with God. David cried out in joy and despair, anger and hope. Yet in many psalms his final word was not dictated by feelings but by trust. Psalm 13 begins with the cry, “How long, Lord? Will you forget me forever?” but ends with a decision: “But I trust in your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in your salvation.” David felt abandoned but chose faith.

Jesus too experienced anguish in Gethsemane, yet prayed, “Not my will, but yours be done.” Faith that outlasts feelings is not emotionless; it is anchored deeper than emotion.

Such faith grows through habits that feed the soul even when emotions falter. Daily Scripture reading, regular prayer, and gathering with other believers are like building a foundation before the storm hits. Over time, these practices shape us so that when feelings dip, faith remains steady.

We also need to preach truth to ourselves. When fear whispers, “You’re alone,” we answer with God’s promise: “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” When discouragement says, “It’s hopeless,” we remind ourselves that God’s mercies are new every morning. Speaking Scripture over our hearts is not wishful thinking; it is anchoring in what is real when feelings fluctuate.

Community is essential too. Ecclesiastes reminds us that if one falls, another can help them up. When your own faith feels weak, someone else’s prayer or encouragement can carry you.

Feelings will come and go, but God’s truth stands firm. A faith grounded in His Word and nourished by His presence can withstand emotional storms. This is not a cold or joyless faith – it is a living faith that knows joy and sorrow but is not ruled by either.