Some are surprised to discover when they read the
Bible for the first time the range of emotions Jesus exhibited. Emotions are a normal part of being
human. Jesus was emotional and was not
embarrassed by His emotions; He never tried to hide or stifle them. Jesus could thrive within His emotions
because they were perfectly aligned with the Father on every matter. So why are our emotions out of whack? Our failure is summarized in Psalm 4: 4. In your anger do not sin… When our emotions are drawn into sin, they collapse into a fit of rebellion and vanity. The depression that forsakes God in its despair, the anger that strips fellow sinners of their humanity and the fear that immobilizes us and keeps us from being led by the Holy Spirit need a Savior. In Psalm 68:3 we find God’s plan for the normal Christian life. God has designed you, regardless of your circumstances and
difficulties, regardless of where you were raised or who is in your family, to live happily. But may the righteous be glad and rejoice
before God; may they be happy and joyful. (NIV) Of course you may think that this is impossible. You may call it a pipe dream or something
only for those who die and go to heaven. But the psalmist is quite
practical and states without
equivocation what God’s plan is for you here and now. However, you have to decide if this is something you want! Are you ready to have Jesus rework your emotions?
Do you want God to give
you supernatural happiness?
Jesus maintained His
joy because He continually aligned Himself with the will of the Father. It takes courage and faith to believe that
your circumstances are Christ given, that those who surround you are placed
there by God and that your body is safely in the hands of the Father. Each time you find your emotions sweltering
with panic, rage or despair, breathe deeply and whisper a prayer of child-like
dependence upon Christ to rework your heart.
“God, save me. Come to my rescue
and restore to me the joy of my salvation!
I have a Savior. I have a Father
who loves me. I am safe. My Lord is good!”
Jesus
wept. John 11:35 NIV
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