Why Do These Feelings Keep Sticking Around?
Have you ever prayed for your feelings for someone to disappear, only to find them lingering no matter how hard you try? Maybe it’s a friend, a church member, or even a coworker. You might feel uncomfortable because you never intended to develop these emotions. Perhaps, you’ve ended a relationship, but your heart still aches for that person. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone.
Jacob’s Story: A Love That Wouldn’t Fade
Think about Jacob in the Bible. He fell deeply in love with Rachel and worked seven years just to marry her. When he was deceived into marrying her sister instead, his feelings didn’t fade. Instead, he worked another seven years just to be with Rachel. His love remained strong, even when circumstances seemed against him.
Like Jacob, your feelings might not vanish overnight. But why? Why isn’t God taking them away when you ask Him to?
1. God Wants You to Grow in Emotional Maturity
Sometimes, God doesn’t remove your feelings because He wants you to learn self-control.
As children, we rely on our parents for everything. But as we grow, we learn to take responsibility for our emotions. God wants you to reach a place where you can manage your feelings rather than being controlled by them. That’s why self-control is one of the fruits of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23).
What Can You Do?
- Shift your focus – Instead of giving attention to your emotions, focus on God through prayer and studying His Word.
- Take control of your thoughts – When your mind drifts to that person, redirect it to something uplifting, like Scripture or worship.
- Change what you see – Stop scrolling through their photos, avoid unnecessary contact, and set healthy boundaries.
- Pray for strength – Ask God to help you guard your heart and make wise choices.
2. God Wants You to Honor Him Over Your Feelings
Sometimes, God allows these feelings to remain as a test of obedience. If He has shown you that this person isn’t right for you, He may be waiting to see if you will trust Him despite your emotions.
Abraham loved Isaac deeply, yet he was willing to sacrifice him because he trusted God’s plan. Your obedience to God, even when your heart says otherwise, is an act of faith.
What Can You Do?
- Ask yourself: Is this a battle between my feelings and my faith?
- Choose obedience over emotions – Your feelings may not disappear instantly, but honoring God always leads to His best for you.
- Pray daily – Ask God for strength to follow His will, not your emotions.
3. God May Be Revealing the Right Person to You
On the other hand, what if God isn’t removing your feelings because they are part of His plan?
Sometimes, we overlook the people God places in our lives. If, despite all your efforts, your feelings continue to grow, it might be worth praying about whether God is directing you toward this person.
What Can You Do?
- Pray for clarity – Ask God to reveal if this relationship aligns with His will.
- Seek wise counsel – Talk to a trusted pastor or mentor.
- Observe their character – Are they leading you closer to Christ?
Your Next Steps
Whatever the reason behind your lingering feelings, the most important thing is to handle them in a way that honors God. It’s okay to have emotions, but what you do with them matters most. Will you allow them to control you, or will you choose to submit them to God?
Take This Quiz: Is It Time to Let Go or Hold On?
- Has God given you clear signs that this person isn’t right for you? (Yes/No)
- Do your feelings lead you to compromise your faith? (Yes/No)
- Have you prayed about it and received peace about moving forward? (Yes/No)
Results:
- Mostly Yes – It may be time to surrender your feelings and trust God’s plan.
- Mostly No – Your feelings might be God’s way of guiding you toward something deeper. Keep praying!
Poll: What Has Helped You the Most in Handling Lingering Feelings?
- Prayer and fasting
- Focusing on personal growth
- Seeking advice from mentors
- Setting boundaries and distractions
A Closing Prayer
Lord, thank You for Your plans for my life. Please guide me in handling my feelings in a way that honors You. Help me to focus on You, trust in Your timing, and walk in obedience. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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