Why Emotions Matter

Book excerpt: For some, emotions are overwhelming and all-important. For others, they are bothersome and irrational. No matter where you fall on the emotional spectrum, one thing is for sure: God designed you as an emotional being. Your emotions have purpose, and they're worth handling with curiosity, respect, and wisdom.What might it look like for you to have a healthy relationship with emotions? Could you learn to discern them and use them wisely? Through the unified lens of current research and scriptural teaching, this guide explores: how emotions work as signals on your body's internal dashboard, why emotions are valuable (even when they are unpleasant), what to do when your emotions don't match the situation, helpful tools and habits to cultivate emotional health over the long-term, the ins and outs of shame, fear, anger, sadness, jealousy, and happiness. Whether you're a skeptical stoic or an impulsive feeler, pursuing a healthy relationship with your emotions is key to living a passionate and abundant life. After all, it's ultimately about becoming a little more like the person God created you to be.