And they, having become callous, have given themselves over to sensuality for the practice of every kind of impurity with greediness. Ephesians 4:19 (NASB)
What does it mean to be callous or hardhearted? Most people think that a person with a hard heart is cold and emotionless.
But actually, someone who is overly emotional can be hardhearted as well. This kind of person doesn’t know how to stand in someone else’s shoes. They’re too wrapped up in their own emotions to empathize with others—and it destroys their relationships.
Today’s verse says that when we’re callous, we give ourselves over to sensuality. We usually think of that word in terms of sex, but it simply means “from the senses.” Your five senses and emotions are constantly feeding you information, but you can choose what to do with it. Just because you feel something doesn’t mean that it’s true.
When we follow every strong emotion or desire that comes up, we allow feelings to be the guiding force in our lives. Often, we allow our feelings to speak so loud that it’s hard to hear God. But you have the mind of Christ. He has given you the ability to quiet your mind and listen to His voice.
Today, while you spend time in His Word, ask Him to help you line up your beliefs with His. As you keep meditating on His Word on a regular basis, your emotions will begin to follow suit. You’ll grow in self-control, and your relationships will begin to thrive because you’re free to love people the way Jesus does!