I'm pondering what it would be like if we had no feelings – emotionless humans. Life would be rather bleak. Some may say “sounds great – no ups and downs - steady blahs all the time.” Seems to me, deep down, we all know how boring that would be. No compassion, no emotional engagement in movies we watch, no delight or distress over anything or anyone.
Emotions are very powerful, yet not often discussed in depth. First of all, “Thank You” to our creative Lord for giving us the gift of our strong emotions. It’s these which trigger our thoughts which can lead to actions. We all need motivation.
With emotions comes the need to exert control over them because they can become unruly. Left unchecked emotions can utterly disrupt our peace.
This past Christmas I bought gifts from Hobby Lobby of inspiring metal plaques for everyone in the family, myself included. Mine says, “I Think I’ll Just Be Happy Today.”
Yes, it is possible to create the emotion of happiness within yourself. In fact we have a command from our loving Lord to rejoice daily. “This is the day the Lord has made, let us rejoice in it.” Psalm 118:24. How can we cultivate happy feelings? Here are three ways:
1. Have you tried having a conversation with God if you’re sad or lonely? Listen for a response from Your omnipresent and eternal God. You are never alone or unloved! If you need assistance my book Jesus Time can help get your conversations started.
2. Have you spent time in nature recently, whether it’s sitting for an hour on your front porch or going for a daily walk? This is a truly an emotionally restorative activity. The natural world reminds us that God is ultimately in control and there’s beauty and order to be found around us.
3. Have you read up on heaven? It’s a wonderful place. My pastor had a near death experience (NE). He described the event vividly and said he didn’t want to leave but was told he had to go back because his mission on earth wasn’t yet complete. Perhaps you want to read of similar experiences in the book Imagine Heaven by James Burke. Whether you live or die you can be okay and your loved ones also.
It’s possible to know for certain that you’re going to heaven someday. How can you be sure? Here’s how. Repent for any past wrongdoing. Choose to love, obey and depend upon God with all your mind and heart and love your neighbor as you do yourself. Then live peacefully and joyfully as directed by the Holy Spirit. Yes, it’s that simple.
You have every reason to choose the emotion of joy and peace no matter what crazy things are happening in the world around you. You’re welcome to view my free videos on this topic at YouTube-Judith Rolfs 1. DOWN Days, Controlling Your Emotions 2. Stop Emotional Clutter and 3. Worry, How To Stop Doing It. You may want to subscribe to my YouTube channel to get notices when new videos are released. May every viewer be blessed!
However, and this is VERY important, if you’re skirting with clinical depression do seek godly professional counsel IMMEDIATELY Sometimes we all can benefit from a Feelings-lift. J
WRITING UPDATE:
Lots going on this month!
Cover design and final formatting is underway for my husband Wayne’s 2nd volume of Thoughts For Today, Words For Tomorrow. This collection of mini-essays is from the inspirational daily messages Wayne sends our family and friends.
My book Parent’s Treasurebox of Ideas, originally released in 1985, is being republished because of its timeliness. The book is packed with ideas for parents or grandparents who are involved in the education of young children. It has a corresponding YouTube video available now - the book will be released in September.
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Have you ever tried memorizing Scripture? You can have instant joy and comfort for yourself anywhere, anytime. How? Try it, you’ll see. This is a good Scripture for starters:
“It is good to praise the Lord and make music to your name, O Most High, proclaiming your love in the morning and your faithfulness at night…For you make me glad by your deeds, Lord; I sing for joy at what your hands have done. How great are Your works, Lord…” Psalm 92: 1-5
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