Emotions
Emotions Speak the Language of Our Heart and Body
Several weeks ago, Gail and I were preparing dinner for a family get-together only to discover that we were missing a key ingredient for the meal. So, I jumped into the car (Gail’s car…) and made my way to the grocery store.
As I pulled into the parking lot, a car suddenly backed out of a parking spot and crunched into the car (Gail’s car…). I was of course bummed that this happened, but I initially felt a gracious calm come over me as I figured we would just exchange insurance information, and the damage could easily get repaired. Everything was fine for about five seconds, until the driver of the other car attempted to flee the scene.
Instantly, my emotions shifted into high gear (and so did Gail’s car…). A keen sense of injustice flooded over me. I thought, “This isn’t right!” And I could feel my body responding to the situation, moving me to act. The other driver eventually got stuck in the hustle and bustle of the busy parking lot, and we were able to have a conversation.
Emotions Reveal What We Really Treasure
I would love to be able to report that we had a gospel conversation that day, but we did not. While my emotional response was initially righteous (this actually was an injustice), how I responded to my felt experience in the moments that followed, was not. I didn’t steward the gift of my emotions well or guard my heart in that moment. I let my emotions get the best of me and I regret the words that came out of my heart. That’s right, my heart.
Jesus tells us that the mouth speaks from what fills the heart (Luke 6:45). Unfortunately, in that moment, I allowed my troubling emotions to drive me into a ditch, and I became more concerned about the treasure of my little kingdom (Gail’s car…), than representing the Lord and His kingdom.
Emotions Draw Us Near to God
I was instantly convicted by the Holy Spirit. I was guilty and felt ashamed and embarrassed about what I said and how I said it. But this time, I quickly allowed my uncomfortable feelings to drive me to my heavenly Father with words of confession and a plea for forgiveness knowing that His grace super-abounds over my sin.
When you become aware of troubling emotions like anger, anxiety, fear, or despair, allow these uncomfortable feelings to drive you to your heavenly Father and cry out for his help. The sooner you do this, the better off you and those around you will be.
Dan Brewer (Director of Biblical Counseling & Pastoral Care)
“Our emotions are part of God’s design, and to the extent they reflect His purposes and values, they will contribute to effective and holy responses to situations in our lives.”