1. We cannot always trust our feelings.  Our feelings can be faulty.  They can be influenced by what is happening around us.  We can be misled by our feelings.

2. We need to learn to “fly” (live) by instruments.  God has provided an “instrument” to guide us: His Word, the Bible.

“All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work” (2 Timothy 3:16-17).

This Divinely-given instrument informs us that we are all sinners and fall short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23).  If we continue to follow this course – which is often based on what we “feel” is right – then the Instrument tells us that we are headed for a “crash” (destruction, Matthew 7:13-14).

Yet this Instrument also points us to the Savior who will safely lead us to an eternal home in heaven (John 3:16).  The Savior, Jesus Christ, died on the cross for our sins so that we can receive forgiveness and the gift of eternal life (Ephesians 1:7; Romans 6:23).

The Instrument instructs us to place our faith and trust in Jesus (Acts 16:30-31), turn from our sins in repentance (Acts 17:30-31), confess Jesus before men (Romans 10:9-10), and be baptized (immersed) into Christ for the forgiveness of sins (Acts 2:38).  As we continue to live by the Instrument, God promises to continue to cleanse us from our sins (1 John 1:7-9).

“Feelings come and feelings go
And feelings are deceiving;
My warrant is the Word of God,
Naught else is worth believing.”
-- Attributed to Martin Luther

Don’t trust your feelings; trust the Instrument: God’s Word.  Following the Instrument will place you in Jesus.  He is the Way to life (John 14:6).

-- David A. Sargent