“There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death.” 

~ Proverbs 16:25 (ESV) ~

Before acting, consider who is guiding you—God or man. The divine plan or human influence. Or, good versus bad influence. We live in a world that prizes action. People, society, and negative influences often push us with "make the move," urging us to take a shot, trust our instincts, and do what feels right. This advice is everywhere, and on the surface, it seems empowering—even virtuous. But trusting feelings over God’s guidance can lead to uncertainty. Remember Michel de Montaigne's words: “A lost soul without a well-established aim loses itself.” That’s chaos. In genuine conflict, no leader sends troops based solely on feelings. Strategy always comes first, or, in a Christian context, the plan of God. Direction is set before action. Authority is clarified before moving forward. Yet, many try to live the Christian life by instinct in the name of the Holy Spirit, rather than seeking divine guidance and instruction first. Trusting God's plan will inspire confidence and reassurance in your walk.

Let’s examine the impact of a dangerous belief circulating in our society today because it undermines biblical truth. The misconception we’re addressing this week is simple: "Do what feels right.” It doesn’t sound rebellious. It doesn’t outright reject God. It just assumes that feelings, intuition, or preferences are trustworthy guides. But Scripture never gives those things the steering wheel, never!

Please understand that feelings are facts and real, but they are not always trustworthy. They are inconsistent, which is why so many Christians struggle to stay united or maintain consistency in the LORD. Feelings fluctuate with circumstances, seasons, hunger, fatigue, fear, affirmation, pressure, and every person you encounter. What feels right today can feel disastrous tomorrow. That’s why Proverbs 16 warns us that what seems right can still lead us astray. When feelings become our leaders, something else quietly happens: we try to take control. And control is precisely what Jesus consistently asks us to surrender.

Many people believe Jesus came to join our journey. That is not the case; He came to lead it—now, tomorrow, always. When Jesus Christ calls His disciples, He doesn’t say, “Invite Me into your plans.” He says, “Follow Me.” That word—follow—is not poetic. It’s directional or declarative, if you will. Following assumes: Someone is in front—Jesus. Someone sets the pace—Jesus. Someone determines the path—Jesus. Jesus doesn’t ride shotgun. He doesn’t co-pilot your life. He leads. And this is where His words become grounding rather than restrictive: “I am the Life.” Life, in the biblical worldview, is not something you create through good instincts or strong feelings. Life is something you receive—and then align yourself with. Trusting Jesus as the leader brings a sense of peace and security, knowing He guides every step.

As previously shared, obedience is the first act of war because it lays the foundation for strategy in the Kingdom of God. In the Kingdom of God, obedience is not passivity; it’s strategy! Obedience answers the most crucial question of life: Who has authority here? The Christian life doesn’t start when we feel brave. It begins when we stop pretending we’re in control. Paul captures this mindset when he urges believers to “live a life worthy of the calling you have received” (Ephesians 4:1). Worthy living isn’t about being expressive—it’s about being aligned. Alignment doesn’t eliminate emotion; it redeems it and establishes Self-control. 

So, here’s the war tactic for the week: Yield the Wheel. Here’s the practical step as we continue this series. Stop asking Jesus to bless what you’ve already decided. Stop confusing feelings with faith. Stop negotiating with the One who is Life. Obedience isn't how God limits us; it’s how He reveals the path—Choose the Narrow Path! Jesus doesn’t ask you to feel confident; He asks you to follow, and if you do, you will follow. When you surrender control, you align with His divine purpose, and life begins to make sense-not because it’s easy, but because it’s rightly ordered. Surrendering control can bring a sense of relief and purpose in your walk with Christ and in life.

Here’s a question to reflect on this week. As you prepare for this week’s reality, ask yourself honestly: Where am I letting feelings guide me? Where am I asserting control? Where is Jesus riding shotgun instead of leading? The battle isn’t primarily against the world. It’s against misplaced authority within us. Strategy first. Obedience before action. Follow the One who is Life.

More to come during this week’s Sunday message at Elevating Life Church and on the Podcast as we continue The Art of War – Jesus Style.

As always, as we fight together, understand, God is here. God is able. Good is good!

Pastor Drake