( Matt. 12:33-37 ) We are the sum of what we encountered in life and our reactions to these events. Being conditioned by life's experiences, we are prone to react to life impulsively and instinctively rather than to respond on the basis of considered judgment. Such actions reveal a man's inner life - his focus - and who and what determines his peace and joy ( 1 John 2:3-6 ; Matt. 5:44 ; Gal. 5:19-21 ; Col. 3:5-9 ).

Our usual focus is on what others have done or failed to do. As we maintain a self-defensive and self protective posture, we are inclined to judge, to condemn, to criticize, to blame shift, and similar reactions. This self focus is a breeding ground for anger, frustration, despair, bitterness, self-pity, and the like - a life of feelings. A feeling-oriented life is a fertile area in which Satan operates and upon which he feeds ( Gen. 4:7 ).

( John 14:21 ; James 1:22-25 ) The ungodly live by their senses. Their lives are directed by how and what they feel. This is what distinguishes a committed Christian from the world: a Christian lives by the will of God, not by feelings. However, nothing wrong with feelings in themselves until we act upon them. We are not to be directed or to live by feelings. We are to take stock and make note of our intents - the spirit that is being manifested. Then ask God for the grace to insure that we respond in a manner that honors and glorifies Him.

Regardless of how we feel we are to do what the word of God says to do. As we do to please the Father, godly feelings follow - the joy of the Lord. Living by the word, one serves God the Creator. Anything done without faith, without reference to God's word is sin ( James 4:17 ; Eph. 4:29 ; Rom. 2:6-9 ; John. 3:21 ; 1 John 2:3 ; Prov. 1:22-31 ; Rom. 8:13 ).

( 2 Cor. 5:17 ; Jer. 17:9 ) Our responses and reactions to life reflect our roots, the source of our being. Man's thoughts, speech and actions convey the character of these roots. Here we can identify the sin patterns and strongholds developed over the years that characterize the lifestyle and personality of the individual.

We establish godly roots by changing I to We , you in union with Christ. This begins with the new birth, followed by daily renewal of the mind. Thus life is confronted on the basis of God's word - the will of God. As we do the word, the Holy Spirit changes our roots which affects our feelings. This is a purification process. And we, in turn, begin to respond to life in a manner that glorifies God ( 2 Cor. 10:3-5 ; Gal. 5:22-23 ; 2 Pet. 1:3-8 ; Eph. 4:22-24 ; Col. 3:10 ).