I want to speak with those who are averse to feelings, having lived by suppressing their own emotions. Many of us were taught indirectly, yet clearly, that emotionalism is bad or at least a display of weakness. Moreover, boys were taught never to cry, as this was something a girl does, and we wanted to be men and masculine. No boy wants to be a sissy, but we did cry at times of anguish or pain, unable to restrain. In many churches showing emotion, even lifting ones hands, is an unacceptable display drawing attention to ones self, (though probably not with that intent). Intellectualism is not considered bad, men are often stoic, especially in church and prayers can be orations that seem impersonal and insincere. The American society was paternalistic until twenty or thirty years ago when masculinity gradually became taboo, offensive, and abusive (in the media driven society). Men have not publically objected to this societal shift, but assumed their stoic intellectual retreat to please the women they have always sought to please, ever since Adam joined Eve in her rebellion.

With that inadequate background, (probably offending everyone somehow), let’s consider the Holy Spirit which dwells in the innermost being of every Believer. How is the Spirit of God detected and recognized with our human faculties, mind, soul, and spirit? What is the manner of our spiritual dialog? How have Holy Spirit manifestations been deemed merely emotional? Emotions are fickle, but they do one very important thing – they reveal what we truly believe. If we are really hurt our emotions show it. In our mind we could contrive or conclude we were offended and hurt, but we might not be fully persuaded. If we burn with passion or weep in joy, we are convinced, whether it’s true or not. Emotions can be wrong, but they show what we actually believe. Our mental reasoning and rationalization is certainly no reliable measure of the truth, though in pride we like to think so. Where is our truth detector?

Everything as pertaining to God requires faith. He is invisible. “The wind blows wherever it pleases. You hear its sound, but you cannot tell where it comes from or where it is going. So it is with everyone born of the Spirit.” (John 3:8) The Holy Spirit only speaks truth; the word of God is truth, and Yeshua (Jesus’ Hebrew name) is the Word of God. The Holy Spirit reminds us of God’s Word. He interprets God’s word to us. (John 14:26) He enables effective communication with God. (Rom. 8:26) He comforts us, leading us into all truth. (John 16:13) Joy and peace are common emotions to every Believer. There are many spiritual gifts imparted to Believers through the Holy Spirit. (1 Cor. 12:6-11) These are enabled by faith. It is entirely possible to manifest any spiritual gift without excessive emotion, but no amount of intellectualism, sophistication or emotion will release Spiritual gifts – only faith, humility, and total submission to the Spirit’s leading. In my personal experience I have rarely, if ever, failed to have an emotion as a result of sensing the Presence, receiving a word, or revelation of knowledge from Almighty God through the Holy Spirit. I never questioned this because it only seemed appropriate considering His majesty, goodness, holiness, might, grace, mercy and Love.

Lord, we need and want to receive every good gift you have for us. Help us to be humble and selfless so that we can serve you and others in your ways and means. Where we have judged others forgive us, as judgment belongs only to you. Where we have been deceived and failed to believe your Word in truth deliver us from deception. Root out the pride that separates us from you and others and fill our hearts with your love. Empower your children to walk in the fullness of your Holy Spirit accomplishing your purposes.