If you know these things, you are blessed if you do them (John
13:17).

What happened to mankind emotionally as a result of the Fall? For
one thing, we became fearful and anxious. One of the first emotions
expressed by fallen humanity was fear (Genesis 3:10). Today fear is
crippling our relationships and activities. Fear is a result of the
Fall. If fear is controlling your life, then faith is not.

Another emotional by-product of sin is shame and guilt. Before Adam
and Eve disobeyed God, they were naked and unashamed (Genesis 2:25). God
created them as sexual beings. Their sex organs and sexual activity were
holy. But when they sinned, they were ashamed to be naked and they had
to cover up (Genesis 3:7). Many people mask their inner self in fear
that others may see them for who they really are.

Mankind also became depressed and angry after the Fall. Cain brought
his offering to God and, for some reason, God was displeased with it. As
a result, "Cain became very angry and his countenance fell. Then
the LORD said to Cain, ‘Why are you angry? And why has your countenance
fallen? If you do well, will not your countenance be lifted up?’"
(Genesis 4:5-7).

I believe God established a principle here which echoes all through
the Bible: You don’t feel your way into good behavior; you behave your
way into good feelings. There are tons of things you don’t feel like
doing, but you do them. I never feel like going to the convalescent
hospital to minister. And the moment I step in the door, the smell alone
does away with any positive feelings of wanting to continue on. But I
always leave feeling great; I’m glad I went. Good feelings follow right
behavior. Jesus said, "If you know these things, you are blessed if
you do them" (John 13:17).

Lord, help me do what You want me to do even when it seems
unpleasant. I seek Your blessing for obedience.