Described to house feelings, the soul is probably the most neglected of the body, soul, and spirt. The spirit man seems to be easily connected to the supernatural, godly or ungodly. However, the soul, the seat of our emotions and feelings tends to take us on a rollercoaster ride of an undetermined timeframe. This is my thought process today. I am going down a rabbit hole to understand why it is so challenging for humanity to trust God and believe that He has our best interests at heart. Man’s desire to control everything but our emotions is at war with the Creator.
The soul and the flesh are not synonymous. The flesh is where sin is rooted. The soul is considered to be the essence of a human being. This includes the conscious and awareness. The Scripture says “it is appointed unto man once to die, and then judgment.” The physical man returns to dust at death. The Spirit returns to the Lord. Ecclesiastes 12:7 – “and the dust returns to the ground it came from, and the spirit returns to God who gave it.” (NIV). What’s left? Our essence, or the soul is left. Where does the soul go?
Many don’t believe in hell. Some may not even believe in heaven. However, I am one to take seriously the destination of my soul. I would rather take the initiative and fuel my soul that I may go to heaven than otherwise. Staying caught up in the things of this world and end up in hell is not something I choose consciously. I realize this subject is not an easy one. Each individual has their own perspective. I share mine now in case someone cares for a different perspective.
I am not a scholar by any stretch of the imagination. I concede that I will pen additional posts on this subject. Today, though, it was on my mind. Remember that rabbit hole. I appreciate any comments you may have. Another Scripture I share is Mark 12:30 – “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.” (NIV). This distinguishes the unique compartments of who we are to better understand how to worship God. Functions do overlap. However, when you feel stuck, uncover the root. Is it your feelings or emotions? Your thoughts, beliefs, or perspective? Or could it be your flesh that wars against the Spirit?
These questions were coming up today. They will require a deeper dive from me for me because I want to understand and be headed in the right direction. I lean on the Holy Spirit to guide me as I make daily choices. I believe when these different compartments are addressed, we can see our relationship with God more clearly and sincerely. Proverbs 4:1- “Listen, my sons, to a father’s instruction; pay attention and gain understanding.” (NIV). Every question doesn’t need to be answered to get an understanding. Just the right ones. God’s word answers the right questions for us.
Be blessed.