– by Ashlee Dysart 

Hello sisters! Do you ever wonder why God gave us so many different emotions? They can be kind of confusing, right?

The truth is that we were designed to be emotional and sensitive. God gave us different feelings and emotions for us to use to glorify Him. Sometimes dealing with our emotions can be hard. We all desire to be joyful and happy, but some days we just want to curl up and cry. Being emotional is normal; again, we are designed to be that way! It’s the way we use our emotions that is either pleasing or sinful to God. 1 Corinthians 10:31 says that we are to do everything for God’s glory. Our emotions definitely have a big say in the way we think or do things. Let’s talk about some of the more common emotions we experience and see how we can use them to glorify God.

Anger

“Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath.”
(Ephesians 4:26)

Be angry and do not sin – is that even possible? Human anger is self-centered. It is rooted in our fleshly desires and demands, and it is not at all what Paul had in mind when he told us to be angry and sin not. Paul was speaking of righteous anger. To have righteous anger is to be angry at what makes God angry. For example, when the Israelites violated their covenant with God and made a golden calf (Deuteronomy 9:13-14, 20). As fallen humans, we tend to get more frustrated over offended pride than the marring of God’s glory. We get so focused on our little irritations and frustrations that we lose sight of God’s holiness.

If you struggle with anger, I would encourage you to confess it before the Lord and seek His grace for the battle.

Fear

Fear is something we all struggle with. Maybe it’s a fear of what others think, or worry that we will never get married, or being scared of the dark. Everyone, if they are honest, is a little worried about something. The thing is, fear prevents us from living peacefully in the now. It distracts us from living the life God planned for us. When we worry and fret, it is like we are telling God that we don’t trust Him and His plan for our lives. We think that once we pass this test or get married then all our fear will be gone – WRONG.

When that test goes away or we put the wedding dress in a box, we will find something else to worry about because nobody can get over fear without God. Only when we learn to trust in Him and lay all our hopes and fears at His feet, will we experience the freedom of an anxiety-free heart.  

“Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that He might exalt you in due time: Casting all your care upon Him; for He careth for you.”
(1 Peter 5:6-7)

Silliness

This is a tricky one, sisters. It is hard to find the line between fun and foolishness. As young Christian ladies, we are called to be an example of our Savior everywhere we go! Proverbs 9 is a wonderful chapter highlighting the differences between wisdom and foolishness. It is an excellent guide to determine if our silliness or fun-loving behavior has gone too far. For example, verse 6 says, “Forsake the foolish, and live; and go in the way of understanding.” Are you being silly just because your friends are? Just because they do it, doesn’t mean it is right.

Evaluate your actions and speak up (graciously) if what is happening is wrong. Verse 13 states that “A foolish woman is clamorous: she is simple, and knoweth nothing.” Clamorous means “loud noise”. Are you talking too much or being loud in order to draw attention to yourself? There are many other examples in just this one chapter of what a foolish woman is. Compare your actions to those in the chapter and see if they are foolish (drawing attention to self) or God-honoring (pointing to the holiness of Jesus).

Sadness

Sadness is a common emotion; we have all felt sad. Maybe when someone you love has fallen sick or if a friend has to move away. Being sad helps us sympathize with people. It’s the beginning step in knowing what it is to be comforted and to comfort (2 Corinthians 1:3-5).

At times the emotion of sadness can turn into a battle against depression. Being sad over something we did wrong or the way someone laughed at us can quickly turn to depression if we do not bring these things before the Lord, trusting in His grace. We start to think negatively of ourselves and others, believing the subtle lies of Satan. We shut out those who care and even shut out God. If you notice that you are often thinking negatively about life, not wanting to talk to others, and/or avoiding seeking God, speak to someone. I know it can be difficult, but depression is not something to be treated lightly; talk to your parents or a close mentor.

If you realize depression is something you struggle with, I would encourage you to read the Word, discover the promises of God, and claim them as your own. Also, whenever you start to have negative thoughts, say aloud, “Get behind me, Satan.” Depression is one of his tools and he uses it plenty. Tell him that you will no longer listen to his lies and that you have God’s enduring love and unfailing promises.

“Submit yourselves therefore to God.
Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.”
(James 4:17)

Joyfulness

Joy – it is probably the most wonderful emotion we experience!! God has given us joy that we may praise Him and tell others of His goodness (Psalm 47:1). Too often our circumstances affect our joy; when everything is wonderful, it is easy to be joyful and happy. But this is not true joy; our joy comes from the Lord, and is not dependent on circumstances. True and abundant joy enables us to rejoice even in the hardships and struggles of life.

“My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience.”
(James 1:2-3)

Remember — emotions are a gift!

How are we going to use them? To fulfill selfish desires or bring our Jesus glory? Sisters, I would encourage you to embrace the emotions He has given you, but instead of allowing them to direct and control you, you must direct them. Channel them in order that they might fulfill His purposes.

As you surrender to Christ all of your mind, body, and soul, He will show you how to honor Him one day at a time. Let’s delight in His good gifts – including emotions! Let’s glorify Him through them!

– Ashlee