Moods

<<emotional state of mind>>

Moods normally are triggered by some physical circumstance, and don't reflect our true inner self. Stress, lack of sleep, some foods and medications are among these 'not-being-ministered-to' causes that have an adverse effect on the human mental state, resulting in an emotional roller-coaster of unpredictable reactions, commonly termed good or bad moods. Hormones can have a bearing on a female’s emotional state prior to her periods. Extra tolerance should be extended to them during this time, and to those unduly tired and stressed.

Immature and self-focused people are preoccupied as to how things will affected them, they live by their feelings rather than according to the Word of God and walking in Spirit. Do not stoop to using your mood as an excuse, a form of manipulation or take your problems out on others. Endeavour not to let the moods of others affect you either.

We are to be in control, not our moods – Proverbs 16:32

David’s request was rudely refused. This made him angry and he was going to act unwisely, however he was talked out of his rash ungodly decision (1 Sam 25:21-33). The profound wisdom of the Bible states, "He who is slow to anger is better than the mighty, and he who rules his spirit than he who takes a city" (Prov 16:32). Either the flesh (manipulated by Satan) or our spirit (if we allow it to be directed by God-honouring values) will emerge victorious. The Bible teaches we are to bring our thoughts into submission to Christ and allow His peace to rule in our hearts (2 Cor 10:5; Col 3:15-17). Decisions made when in a bad mood are always regretted later.

Identify the trigger points and issues that cause your moodiness so you can deal with this frame of mind by owning and processing them in a healthy manner. While we have little control over external factors we are to take charge of our thoughts and reactions. It is our responsibility to master our emotions (Gen 4:7). The Bible's message is "Live in the Spirit and you won't fulfill the lust of the flesh"...with one of the fruits of the Spirit being self-control, by which we choose to walk in God-honouring ways (Gal 5:16,22,23,25).

Although we can’t change the circumstances of life, we have the power and responsibility to govern our thought patterns including when things are not going our way. We are to control our emotions and moods, not allowing them dictate to us. “Why are you downcast, O my soul?...Put your hope in God” (Ps 42:5,11, 43:5). At such times, when external things influence our inner being, we too need to refocus and get our perspective right, developing the “I will bless the Lord at all times” attitude, believing God will work in and through them for my benefit (Ps 34:1; Rom 8:28). Praise shifts the focus off me.