Luke 21:19 says, “By your patience possess your souls.” The Strong’s word for souls says that it is the seat of the affections, will, desire, emotions, mind, reason, and understanding. I like to illustrate it through the picture of a braid. The mind leads off, and the will and emotions follow.

My mentees are always using the words, “I feel…” Their feelings do not reflect the truth. John 8:31-32 says, “…If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.”

God’s truth is the standard base for our feelings. His truth reflects His nature. As we abide in His word, His word works to form our character through our trials. Romans 5:3-4 gives us the progression: trials produce perseverance, and perseverance character.

James 1:2 says to count our trials as joy. Why? Verse 3-4 says, “Knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.” Salvation’s joy is an irrevocable gift.