Embracing Your Emotions

"Be angry and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger, and give no opportunity to the devil." - Ephesians 4:26-27 
  
Let's talk about emotions. No, not the fluffy, feel-good ones we love to flaunt, but the uncomfortable, sometimes messy ones we tend to shove aside. In our society, there's a stigma attached to emotions – a belief that they should be subdued and rationality should reign supreme. But what if I told you that emotions, even the challenging ones, are not inherently bad?

Think about it. God Himself experiences a range of emotions as depicted in Scripture. From pleasure to displeasure, joy to anger, God's emotional spectrum is as diverse as ours. If God, in all His perfection, can feel these emotions, then surely it's natural for us to experience them too.
 
So, what exactly defines a toxic emotion? It's not the emotion itself, but rather its repression that causes harm to ourselves and others. Suppressing our feelings can lead to a buildup of resentment, bitterness, and even physical ailments.

Feeling anger in response to injustice is natural and can fuel positive change. However, if left unexpressed or unaddressed, it can manifest as destructive behavior toward others. Similarly, sadness is a normal response to loss, but when kept bottled up, it can spiral into depression.
 
The truth is that emotions are not the enemy. They're a vital part of our human experience, shaping our interactions and influencing our perceptions. It's only when we deny or suppress them that they become toxic.

Perhaps you're holding onto unspoken grievances or burying the pain of a broken relationship. Maybe you're seething with anger over injustice or feeling overwhelmed by the state of the world. Whatever it may be, it's time to acknowledge and name your emotions.
 
Emotions are not toxic, but repressed emotions are. Now that you understand this distinction, take a moment to identify and confront the emotions that have been simmering beneath the surface.

Don't let pride or fear hold you back from expressing what's in your heart. Find healthy outlets for your emotions – whether it's through journaling, talking to a trusted friend, or seeking professional help. Remember, you're not alone in this journey.