A big range of emotions has followed the recent elections. Some people are happy. Many are sad and concerned. Whatever you may be feeling…
I’m pondering what it would be like if we had no feelings – emotionless humans. Life would be rather bleak. Some of you may say, “sounds great – no ups and downs - steady blah 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. First of all, I thank our creative Lord for giving us the gift of strong emotions. Emotions can trigger our thoughts and compassion and can lead to actions. We all need motivation.
Yet, with emotions comes the need to exert control over them, because they can become unruly. Left unchecked emotions can utterly disrupt our peace. I’m speaking from experience. My emotions continue to cause me extreme sadness as I deal with grief over the loss of my husband four years ago. This message is for me and you.
A year ago, I bought gifts from Hobby Lobby of inspiring metal plaques for everyone in the family. Mine says, “I Think I’ll Just Be Happy Today.” Some days that’s a big effort, but I try.
I have found it is possible to create the emotion of happiness within. 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 some ways:
1. Gratitude helps. For every sad thought of Wayne’s absence, I try to express a grateful thought for the special connection we had.
2. Talking with God helps. Have you tried conversing with God when you’re scared or lonely or disappointed? Then listen for a response from Your omnipresent and eternal God. You are never alone or unloved! (If you need assistance getting your conversations started my book Jesus Time can help.)
3. 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 for me. The natural world reminds me that God is ultimately in control and there’s beauty and order to be found around us.
4. Have you read up on heaven? It’s a wonderful place. My priest friend had a near death experience (NE). He described the event vividly and said he didn’t want to leave heaven 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. This life is not all there is.
By the way, it’s possible to know for certain that you’re going to heaven someday. You may ask 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 emotions of joy and peace no matter what crazy things are happening in our world. Emotions can be guided by our choices. I’m not saying this is always easy, but it is possible. Best of all God is always available to comfort, guide and help – that’s VERY good news!
For more help view my free videos on emotional topics at YouTube-Judith Rolfs 1. DOWN Days, Controlling Your Emotions 2. Stop Emotional Clutter and 3. Worry, How to Stop Doing It. However, and this is VERY important, if you’re skirting with clinical depression do seek godly professional counsel IMMEDIATELY.
WRITING UPDATE:
Lots going on this month! First ever two books launching at the same time! My children’s Book Four in the Tommy Smurlee series, Tommy Smurlee at Dunmoor Castle is my favorite of all. Read about the laughter, the humor, the wild ideas, and the fun adventures of Tommy, his girlfriend Grella and the other unusual characters. For kids eight and up (some adults enjoy my mystery fantasies as well.) Also newly released A Stroke of Murder is a reprint of a book published 20 years ago with a new cover. The story about love and forgiveness is meaningful today.
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Have you ever tried memorizing Scripture? You can have instant joy and comfort anywhere, anytime. 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
