Mini-Sermon: "The Difference Between Faith and Feelings."

**Key Verse**: *“For we live by faith, not sight.”* — 2 Corinthians 5:7 (NIV)

**Main Point**: Faith and feelings often get tangled together but are fundamentally different. Faith is rooted in trust and belief in God’s truth, regardless of circumstances or emotions. Feelings are natural and God-given, but they are temporary and can be influenced by situations. Proper spiritual growth comes when we learn to walk by faith, even when our feelings tell us otherwise.

**Illustration**: Picture walking on a tightrope. Feelings are like the wind—sometimes, they push you forward confidently and sway you with fear or doubt. Faith, however, is the balance pole that keeps you steady. When the winds change, the balance pole keeps you grounded and moving forward, focused on the truth that God is unchanging, trustworthy, and ever-present.

**Biblical Example**: Consider Peter walking on water (Matthew 14:29-30). When he focused on Jesus, he stood firm. But when he let fear—his feelings—overcome him and looked at the storm, he began to sink. This story shows us that feelings can mislead, but faith keeps us grounded in the reality of who God is.

**Application**: Ask yourself: Are there areas in your life where you let feelings dictate your actions more than faith? When you feel anxious or unsure, remember that faith calls you to trust God’s promises, even when you don’t feel like it. Start each day by committing your emotions to God and asking for His strength to walk by faith.

**Prayer**: *“Lord, help me differentiate between my faith and feelings. Let me stand on the truth of Your Word and trust You even when my emotions sway. Please give me the strength to walk by faith and not be led by how I feel. Amen.”*

Remember: Feelings are fleeting, but faith is anchored in the eternal truth of God’s Word. Let faith guide you, especially when your feelings cannot.