Lots of emotions, reactions and actions in Genesis 42:18-38. Joseph is sad and hurting, his brothers are fearful and afraid and Jacob is distraught and unyielding. So what didn't I see? Anyone seeking God. This got me thinking about times when, in the heat of the moment, I allow myself to be driven by my emotions. Before I know it, I've responded to someone or to an important situation based on my feelings with no consultation of God. Not wise on my part.
So what is it that causes us to look to ourselves--our emotions, our feelings--rather than God? How can we do a better job of seeking God right away when something happens that triggers intense emotions like fear, anger and distress? Tami W.
In the Moment
I think it's the part of us that wants to be in control that causes us not to seek God. Often, we get in a hurry in such situations, when the better part of wisdom would be to slow down, go the Lord, and seek His guidance.
I think that there are two big problems here. First, it is pride and control, I know better than God and so I can take care of the problem(s) by myself. The second is fear and lack of trust. I am afraid to trust God because I don't think He cares or even understands. I think that we must be in the Word prayer. But I also think we should seek advise from a mature believer to help us overcome why we don't seek God and help us see what God's plan is.