What is an Emotion?
An
emotion
is
commonly
defined
as
a
feeling
of
joy,
sorrow,
fear,
anger,
love,
and
so
forth.
An
emotion
can
range
from
a
subliminal
and
unnoticeable
influence,
to
a
strong
feeling,
and
to
an
overwhelming
force.
In
addition,
an
emotion
can
arise
without
warning
and
forethought,
and
can
cause
one
to
behave
in
a
way
that
has
not
been
checked
(and
approved)
by
rational
thought.
As
such
(and
unfortunately)
there
are
times
when
our
emotions
completely
take
over
our
thoughts
and
actions
that
results
in regrettable behavior.
Physiologically
(from
our
body’s
perspective),
the
experience
of
an
emotion
may
be
accompanied
by
internal
changes
such
as
an
increased
heart
rate,
increased
respiration,
and
hormonal
changes.
In
addition,
an
emotion
may
also
include
external
manifestations
such
as
different
facial
expressions,
crying,
shaking,
tightening
of muscles, perspiration, and so forth.
The
design
of
our
body,
soul,
and
spirit
includes
emotions,
and
are
a
key
component
of
who
we
are
and
how
we
interact
with
the
world.
Psychologists
seem
to
agree
there
are
six
basic
emotions:
sadness,
anger,
disgust,
surprise,
fear
and
happiness.
In
addition,
these
emotions
are inna
te (inborn, instinctive) and cross-cultural.
The
existence
of
these
emotional
types
has
been
reinforced
by
numerous
psychological
studies
of
infants.
For
example,
Discrete
Emotions
Theory
provides
evidence
that
infants
are
born
with
a
pre-wired
system
for
experiencing
emotions
according
to
a
biologically-
determined timetable.
As
an
infant
matures,
the
degree
a
child
will
express
an
emotion
may
be
influenced
by
parents,
family
members,
and
culture
via
positive
and
negative
learning
experiences.
As
we
grow
into
adults,
we
continue
to
experience
emotions
and
continue
to
reveal
emotions
via
our
facial
expressions.
Indicators
such
as
the
positioning
of
the
eyelids,
lips,
focus
of
the
eyes,
and
opening
of
the
mouth
can
provide
insight
into
the
emotional
status;
and
may
reveal
the
“inner workings” of the heart.
Positive
emotions
are
wonderful
to
experience.
Whereas
negative
emotions
can
be
painful
and
sometimes
excruciating.
What’s
more,
emotions
influence
our
perception
of
life
and
how
we
interact
with
others.
For
example,
look
back
in
time
and
consider
how
you
perceived
your
life
and
how
you
communicated
with
others
when
you
experienced
the
emotion
of
joy
and/or
love.
Now
consider
the
same
when
you
experienced
fear,
anger
or
sadness.
Each
emotion
is
akin
(and
a
common
cliché)
to
looking
at
the
world
through
different
sets
of
colored glasses.
Emotional Awareness and Control
Some
persons
are
not
aware
of
their
emotions.
For
those
who
are
aware,
some
do
not
maintain
a
“pulse”
on
their
emotional
status
and
behavioral
response—which
is
difficult
to
do—especially
when
there
is
a
myriad
of
more
important
things
to
think
about
(and
accomplish)
every
day,
every
hour,
and
every
minute
throughout
the
day.
However,
whenever
possible,
it
is
important
for
us
to
recognize, understand, and manage our emotions.
Some
emotional
experiences
are
temporary,
while
others
may
last
for
a
longer
period
of
time.
An
example
of
a
temporary
emotional
event
is
when
someone
(i.e.
a
driver
on
a
highway)
does
something
inappropriate.
We
first
experience
frustration,
then
anger,
followed
by
a
rise
in
our
blood
pressure.
We
then
attempt
to
rationalize
their
driving
habits
by
questioning
their
intelligence.
They
eventually
go
their
different
way
and
we
soon
forget
about
it.
However,
there
are
times
when
an
emotion
will
last
for
a
longer
period
of
time—even
to
a
point
where
it
seems
“normal”
because
we
forgot
what
it
feels
like
to
live
life
without the emotion.
It’s
important
to
know
emotions
can
provide
an
opportunity
for
Satan
to
lead
one
astray—especially
negative
emotions—which
will
occur
more
often
as
we
get
closer
to
the
last
days.
As
such,
this
writing
focuses
on
the
caustic
emotions
of
anger,
fear
(including
anxiety),
and sadness.
When
we
experience
the
“valleys”
in
life
is
when
some
may
“push
back”
on
everything
and
everyone,
including
God.
This
is
when
we
may
begin
to
question
God—which
opens
the
door
(and
our
“ears”)
to
the
lies
of
Satan.
This
is
the
critical
time
when
we
need
to
hold
onto
our
hope,
belief,
faith
and
trust
in
God’s
word
and
God’s
promises
during
these
turbulent
times.
Jesus
said
we
should
love
God
“With
all
your
heart,
with
all
of
your
soul,
with
all
of
your
mind,
and
with
all
of
your
strength.”
(Mark
12:30)
Proverbs
3:5-6
instructs
us
to
“Trust
in
the
Lord
with
all
your
heart,
and
lean
not
on
your
own
understanding;
in
all
your
ways
acknowledge
him,
and
He
shall
direct
your
paths.”
Anger
All
of
us
have
and
will
experience
varying
degrees
of
anger
as
our
imperfect
flesh
responds
to
a
dark
and
broken
world.
When
we
have
a
negative
encounter
with
someone—especially
if
a
physical,
sexual
or
emotional
abuse
has
occurred—it
will
cause
our
emotions
of
anger
to
predominate
our
thoughts.
We
soon
imagine
obtaining
a
“pound
of
their
flesh”
(or
some
other
form
of
retribution)
for
their
wrongdoing.
If
we
do
not
control
our
emotions
at
this
point,
they
will
continue
to
fester
into
a
toxic
combination
of
additional
emotions.
Some
may
attempt
to
control
their
emotions
by
repressing
them
into
the
background
of
their
mind—but
to
no
avail
because
we
will
still
think
about
what
occurred;
what
we
should
have
done;
and/or
what
we
should
do
to
the
one
who
is
responsible.
Meanwhile,
as
time
passes,
we
will
attempt
to
rationalize
and
get
a
grip
on
what’s
going
on
between
our
ears
and
calm
down.
We
know
in
our
heart
what
we’re
experiencing
is
not
good,
it
is
not
healthy,
it
is
not
spiritual, and it is not Christ-like.
So,
we’re
in
a
quandary
in
what
to
do
with
our
anger,
and
we
have
two
basic
options:
no
response
and
respond.
Meanwhile,
we
need
to
release
the
internal
“pressure”
that is building up due to our anger.
It
is
recommended
(and
appropriate)
to
tell
God
about
our
negative
emotions,
feelings
of
anger,
negative
thoughts,
and
desire
for
justice—rather
than
allowing
the
source
of
our
pain
to
continue.
It’s
not
good
to
hold
onto
or
deny
the
emotion.
But
rather,
it
is
prudent
to
express
all
of
your
feelings
and
thoughts
to
God
in
order
to
refrain
from
putting
yourself
in
a
situation
that
may
make
things
worse;
something
you
could
regret;
and
something
that
will
likely
require forgiveness for what you have done.
David
(in
Psalm
69
and
109)
expressed
his
outrage
to
God
and
asked
for
violent
curses
to
come
down
on
his
enemies.
However,
it’s
important
to
note
that
David’s
anger
transitioned
to
praise
and
worship
as
he
concluded
both Psalms.
And,
yes,
this
is
not
easy,
especially
if
the
wounds
are
deep.
It
is
even
more
difficult
if
physical
and/or
sexual
abuse
occurred—which
often
results
in
an
all-
encompassing
emotional
bondage
with
oppressive
“weights”
that
smothers
the
life
of
the
abused.
No
one
should
have
to
go
through
this
type
of
experience.
There’s only one way out, and that’s forgiveness.
It’s
when
we
approach
the
Throne
of
God;
when
we
seek
His
presence;
when
we
talk
about
our
emotions;
and
when
we
receive
His
love
and
forgiveness
is
when
everything
that
seems
important
falls
away…including
our
anger.
This
is
when
we
feel
an
indescribable
peace
deep
within
our
soul.
This
is
also
when
we
“know
that
we
know”
that
this
is
a
“taste”
of
eternity
with
Him.
This
is
where
forgiveness
for
those
that
have
hurt
us
will
be
found
in
that
we
are
loved,
we
are
forgiven,
and
what
we
have
done
is
forgotten.
“As
far
as
the
east
is
from
the
west,
so
far
has
he
removed
our
transgressions
from
us.”
(Psalm 103:12)
As
we
honestly
share
our
heart
and
how
we
feel
with
God
in
prayer,
and
as
we
express
our
emotions,
the
Holy
Spirit
will
lovingly
illuminate
and
reveal
our
situation.
Sometimes
He
will
reveal
additional
and/or
unknown
layers
and
depths
of
our
innermost
being;
often
resulting
in
tears
of
regret,
healing,
and/or
unexplainable
joy
that
wells up from our soul.
What’s
more,
the
challenges
we
encounter
during
this
temporary
life
on
this
earth
really
don’t
matter
when
we
consider
the
bigger
picture:
our
names
are
written
in
The
Book
of
Life
because
we
have
hope,
believe
in,
extended
our
faith
towards,
and
trust
in
the
sacrificial
death
of
God’s
Son,
Jesus
Christ.
It
is
God’s
grace
and
love
that
changes
us
from
within,
and
it
is
God’s
grace
and
love
that
creates
a
desire
within
us
to
live
a
life
that
pleases
Him.
By
yielding
to
and
obeying
the
Holy
Spirit,
the
internal
pressure
and
“steam”
will
begin
to
dissipate,
our
blood
pressure
begins
to
subside,
and
our
perception
of
the
situation
will
take
on
a
completely
new
reality…from
His perspective.
At
this
point
it’s
our
choice
(due
to
our
free
will)
whether
or
not
we
completely
free
ourselves
from
the
bondage
and
pain
of
anger.
Since
we
are
forgiven,
we
must
forgive.
There
is
no
other
choice.
Without
complete
forgiveness
anger
will
raise
its
ugly
head
again
and
the
cycle
will
not
stop.
And,
yes,
there
will
be
times
when
you
will
need
to
remind
yourself
that
you
forgave
and
need
to
forget.
(Since
it’s
in
our
memory
there
are
times
we
will
remember.)
When
this
occurs,
think
about
what
God
gave
us
in
His
son,
Jesus
Christ.
We
are
absolutely
and
forever
forgiven
for
who
we
are
and
what
we
have
done.
Remember
the
heart-illuminating
and
anger-depleting
words
of
Jesus
before
his
death
on
the
cross:
“Father,
forgive
them,
for
they
do
not
know
what
they
do.”
Luke
23:34
These
words
of
Jesus
reveal
that
He
knew
His
executors
were
living
in
darkness.
He
knew
the
horrific
torture
that
they
just
gave
Him
was
due
to
their
blindness
of
the
Truth.
He
knew
Satan
was
using
them
as
pawns
to
accomplish
his
vain
attempt
to
eliminate
Him.
He
knew
what
He
was
about
to
accomplish
would
provide
a
means
for
them
to
be
forgiven,
and
so
He
prayed
to
the
Father
for
their
forgiveness as he was dying on the cross.
“Repay
no
one
evil
for
evil.
Have
regard
for
good
things
in
the
sight
of
all
men.
If
it
is
possible,
as
much
as
depends
on
you,
live
peaceably
with
all
men.
Beloved,
do
not
avenge
yourselves,
but
rather
give
place
to
wrath;
for
it
is
written,
‘Vengeance
is
Mine,
I
will
repay,’
says
the
Lord.
Therefore,
if
your
enemy
is
hungry,
feed
him;
if
he
is
thirsty,
give
him
a
drink;
for
in
so
doing
you
will
heap
coals
of
fire
on
his
head.
Do
not
be
overcome
by
evil,
but
overcome evil with good.” Romans 12:17-21
The Power of Forgiveness
It
is
safe
to
say
those
who
harmed
us
do
not
deserve
to
be
forgiven.
However,
it’s
also
safe
to
say
we
did
not
deserve
God’s
forgiveness
in
Jesus
Christ.
God’s
desire
for us is to:
•
Let
go
of
that
which
continues
to
destroy
us
from
within.
•
To
forgive
as
He
has
forgiven
us—as
a
reciprocal
act
of His love, His mercy and His grace.
Forgiveness—the
deliberate
act
of
relinquishing
(surrendering,
abandoning)
our
feelings
of
resentment
and/or
vengeance
towards
someone
who
has
harmed
us—is
biblically
mandated.
But
there
is
a
very
good
reason:
forgiveness
is
more
powerful
than
we
realize
in
that it can heal the internal “damage.”
Forgiveness:
•
Is a powerful spiritual weapon.
•
Will
restore
our
body,
heart
and
soul
from
the
devastating harm caused by trauma, such as:
o
Verbal abuse.
o
Mental abuse.
o
Physical abuse.
o
Sexual abuse.
o
Domestic violence.
o
Parental separation.
o
Loss of a loved one.
•
Takes
power
away
from
Satan
and
his
demonic
minions.
•
Changes our perception of:
o
Those who have harmed us.
o
The world around us.
Even
if
the
person
who
committed
the
crime
does
not
care,
refuses
to
change,
or
is
no
longer
living—forgiveness
is
still
vitally
important
for
the
one
who
was harmed—for it is a source of healing.
Even
though
the
one
who
harmed
you
may
discount/disown
what
they
did;
respond
with
disdain;
or
no longer live…forgiveness is for
YOUR
healing.
“The
Power
of
Forgiveness”
(o
n
UniqueBibleStudies.com)
provides
expanded
spiritual
insight
into
forgiveness
and
its
ability
to
heal
the
deepest wounds and scars.
What
to
do
when
a
response
(to
a
situation
that
caused anger) is required.
There
are
occasions
when
anger—caused
by
someone’s
behavior—requires
a
response.
Jesus
Christ
expressed
anger
as
He
cleared
the
temple
of
moneychangers
when
He
declared,
“My
house
shall
be
called
a
house
of
prayer,
but
you
have
made
it
a
den
of
thieves.”
(Matthew
21:12-
13;
Mark
11:15-18;
John
2:13-22).
The
Pharisees
(Jewish
religious
leaders)
wanted
to
see
if
Jesus
would
break
their
rules
(and
charge
him)
by
healing
a
man
on
the
Sabbath.
(Mark
3:1-6).
Knowing
this
Jesus
looked
upon
them
with
anger,
but
was
also
grieved
by
the
hardening
of
their
hearts as He healed the man.
The
expression
of
anger
by
Jesus
Christ
was,
is
and
will
be
holy,
righteous,
and
warranted.
However,
it
is
absolutely
dangerous
for
any
person
to
express
anger.
The
reason
is
that
we
are
unholy,
we
are
non-righteous,
and
our
behavior
is
affected
by
the
sinful
impurities
within
our
flesh.
Plus
it’s
a
very
slippery
slope
in
that
any
expression
of
anger
will
have
a
high
probability
of
resulting in unintended and non revocable consequences.
And
yes,
it
is
not
easy
to
“pull
back”
from
the
situation.
Especially
when
our
rage
is
boiling
inside,
and
our
mind
is
racing
with
thoughts
and
images
of
retribution,
and
we
want
to
completely
unload,
and
it
takes
every
ounce
of
strength
we
have
to
not
respond.
This
is
when
we
need
to
walk
away,
pray
and
seek
guidance
from
the
Holy
Spirit.
We
must
control
our
emotions
and
not
allow
our
emotions to control us.
If
a
response
is
required
and
there’s
no
other
choice,
it
is
best
to
allow
a
“cooling
off”
period
to
occur
so
that
our
rational
thought
process
(and
the
Holy
Spirit)
will
have
an
ability
to
intercede.
Once
this
occurs,
here’s
is
a
list
of
questions to consider.
1
.
Are you calmed down?
•
Have
you
prayed
and
asked
the
Holy
Spirit
to
guide you through this situation?
•
Are you able to think rationally and logically?
•
Are
you
able
to
focus
upon
how
the
situation
may
be improved?
2
.
What is the specific reason for your anger?
•
Be
careful
because
this
question
will
likely
“fan
the
flames” of anger once again.
•
Was
your
pride
and/or
selfishness
a
contributing
factor in your anger?
•
Was your anger justified?
3
.
What is your core motivation to respond?
•
Are
you
seeking
to
punish
or
point
to
Jesus
Christ?
•
Do
you
see,
understand,
and
feel
their
pain
due
to
their life in darkness?
•
Is your response based upon selfless love?
4
.
What is the intended outcome?
•
What can go wrong?
•
Is it possible for a misunderstanding to occur?
•
Can
it
be
used
as
justification
to
not
accept
Jesus
Christ as their Savior and Lord?
5
.
Will God be glorified?
“So
then,
my
beloved
brethren,
let
every
man
be
swift
to
hear,
slow
to
speak,
slow
to
wrath;
for
the
wrath
of
man
does
not
produce
the
righteousness
of
God.
James
1:19-
20
Fear vs. Anxiety
Like
anger,
fear
and
anxiety
are
very
unpleasant
emotions.
While
our
response
to
fear
and
anxiety
may
be
somewhat
similar,
the
definition
of
fear
and
anxiety
are
different.
Fear
is
a
response
to
a
real
and
definite
danger,
pain,
or
harm.
Whereas
anxiety
is
due
to
a
perceived
(or
imagined)
threat
of
danger,
pain,
or
harm.
For
example,
if
you
are
walking
down
a
dark
alley
at
night
you
will
likely
have
anxiety
in
that
someone
could
jump
out
and
harm
you.
However,
if
someone
jumps
out
and
takes
an
aggressive
position
towards
you…your
anxiety
will
immediately
transition
to
fear
(because
it
is
real
and
not
imagined).
This
is
when
adrenalin
kicks
in
and
a
survivalistic
mindset
is
activated:
fight
or
flight
(attack
or
run).
Whether
real
or
imagined,
fear
and
anxiety
can
cause
us
to
experience
a
rise
in
blood
pressure;
increased
stress
and
tension;
cause
an
uneasy
feeling
in
the
pit
of
our
stomach;
can
influence
our
relationship
with
others;
and
can
result
in
an
inability
to
think
and
function
normally.
Fear
will
be
discussed
in
greater
detail
below,
followed
by
anxiety.
Godly Fear
It
is
important
to
understand
that
there
is
a
good
type
of
“Heavenly”
fear
in
that
it
begins
the
attainment
(or
learning)
of
wisdom:
“The
fear
of
the
LORD
is
the
beginning
of
knowledge,
but
fools
despise
wisdom
and
instruction.”
(Proverbs
1:7,
9:10;
Psalm
111:10).
What’s
more,
all
should
fear
God
(and
not
have
anxiety
toward
God)
because
He
is
real.
His
words
are
real.
His
promises
are
real.
Plus,
how
we
individually
fear
God
will
affect
our
life
on
this
earth
and
beyond.
Those
who
do
not
fear
God
will
not
gain
Godly
wisdom.
They
may
be
highly
intelligent,
acquire
significant
knowledge,
and
vainly
consider
themselves
wise—but
they
are
unable
to
see and understand God’s wisdom.
“And
the
disciples
came
and
said
to
Him,
‘Why
do
You
speak
to
them
in
parables?’
He
answered
and
said
to
them,
‘Because
it
has
been
given
to
you
to
know
the
mysteries
of
the
kingdom
of
heaven,
but
to
them
it
has
not
been
given.
For
whoever
has,
to
him
more
will
be
given,
and
he
will
have
abundance;
but
whoever
does
not
have,
even
what
he
has
will
be
taken
away
from
him.
Therefore,
I
speak
to
them
in
parables,
because
seeing
they
do
not
see,
and
hearing
they
do
not
hear,
nor
do
they
understand.’
”
Matthew 13:10-13
“For
the
message
of
the
cross
is
foolishness
to
those
who
are
perishing,
but
to
us
who
are
being
saved
it
is
the
power
of
God.
For
it
is
written:
‘I
will
destroy
the
wisdom
of
the
wise;
and
bring
to
nothing
the
understanding
of
the
prudent’” 1 Corinthians 1:18-19
However,
those
who
fear
God
are
able
to
gain
wisdom
once
they
accept
Jesus
Christ
as
their
Savior
and
Lord,
and
as
they
yield
to
and
are
instructed
by
the
Holy
Spirit.
What’s
more,
the
initial
motivation
of
fear
towards
God
transitions
to
a
compelling
desire
to
serve
Him
based
upon love for Him.
“We love Him because He first loved us.” 1 John 4:19
Example of Fear
I
worked
the
midnight
shift
in
a
convenience
store
while
attending
college.
One
early
morning
a
person
came
into
the
store
and
walked
directly
to
the
back
where
alcoholic
beverages
were
sold.
From
behind
the
sales
counter
I
informed
the
person
that
it
was
after
2
AM
and
we
were
not
allowed
to
sell
beer
or
wine.
The
person
turned,
walked
toward
me,
raised
a
gun
about
6-inches
from
my
face
and
said
“give
me
all
of
the
money.”
I
turned
the
cash
register
around,
pushed
the
No
Sale
button
to
open
the
cash
drawer,
begged
for
my
life,
and
proceeded
to
crawl
into
a
small
area
under
the
counter
for
safety.
Fortunately,
the
person
took
the
money
and
left.
The
person
was
caught
later
that
morning
and
eventually
went
to prison.
After
I
calmed
down,
I
remembered
a
very
odd
experience.
The
second
I
saw
the
gun
it
felt
as
if
a
warm
sensation
moved
very
quickly
through
my
entire
body:
from
my
front
to
my
back.
The
only
description
I
can
give
is
one
I
have
seen
in
cartoons
as
a
child:
when
the
character
was
faced
with
a
terrifying
situation
would
turn
white
with
fear
starting
from
their
front
and
passing
through
their
body.
In
addition,
I
was
in
survival
mode.
The
only
thing
going
through
my
mind
was
to
do
whatever
was
necessary
to
not
give
the
person
a
reason
to
pull
the
trigger.
My
fear
was
due
to
a
real
and
definite
threat
of
harm and possible death.
A
few
days
later
I
asked
(and
received
approval)
to
be
transferred
to
an
auditing
position
within
the
company,
one
where
I
would
not
be
required
to
stand
behind
a
counter
and
be
subject
to
another
armed
robbery.
I
was
dealing
with
the
emotion
of
anxiety
as
I
relived
the
event
in my mind.
Anxiety
Many
of
us
(with
varying
degrees)
experience
continuous
anxiety
subconsciously
because
of
past
negative
experiences
and/or
when
we
look
into
the
future,
we
face
numerous
unknowns.
We
feel
more
comfortable
when
we
know
what
will
occur,
why
it
will
occur,
when
it
will
occur,
how
it
will
occur,
where
it
will
occur,
and
we
know
we
can
“handle”
the
situation.
However,
there
are
many
aspects
of
life
where
this
is
impossible.
As
such,
many
go
through
life
with
a
subliminal
degree
of
anxiety.
Some
experience
mild
anxiety,
others
moderate
and
a
few
have
severe
anxiety.
What’s
more,
some
of
us
are
unaware
of
our
anxiety because we’ve had it for so long it seems normal.
When
changes
(including
potential
changes)
from
our
“norm”
occurs
(change
in
job,
moving,
unplanned
expenses,
medical
issues,
friend/family
conflicts,
and
so
forth)
we
experience
an
increased
anxiety
level
due
to
a
perceived
risk
to
our
security,
status,
wealth,
health,
or
loss
of
anything
valuable.
Our
blood
pressure
rises
and
our
stress
level
increases
as
we
consider
(and
worry)
about
what
may
happen,
and
as
we
generate
questions
in
our
mind
that
are
based
upon
what,
why,
when,
how,
where, and can I do this?
Anxiety
is
reinforced
with
uncertainty
and
doubt;
whereas
love
is
bolstered
with
confidence
and
faith.
Plus,
anxiety
has
an
inverse
relationship
wit
h
love.
As
one
increases
the
other
decreases.
If
we
harbor
the
weight
of
uncertainty
and
doubt
regarding
God’s
promises
and
providence,
the
left
side
of
the
scale
will
tilt
down
to
the
left
as
anxiety
increases.
Meanwhile…the
weight
of
our
confidence,
faith,
and
love
will
decrease
proportionately.
The
opposite
is
true
when
we
put
every
effort
possible
to
place
our
complete
confidence
and
faith
(and
trust)
in
God’s
promises
and
providence
as
He
guides
us
through
the
challenges
in
life
before
us.
Plus,
does
our
anxiety
actually
change
and/or
improve
anything,
or
does
it
make
things worse?
“Be
anxious
for
nothing,
but
in
everything
by
prayer
and
supplication,
with
thanksgiving,
let
your
requests
be
made
known
to
God;
and
the
peace
of
God,
which
surpasses
all
understanding,
will
guard
your
hearts
and
minds
through
Christ
Jesus.
Finally,
brethren,
whatever
things
are
true,
whatever
things
are
noble,
whatever
things
are
just,
whatever
things
are
pure,
whatever
things
are
lovely,
whatever
things
are
of
good
report,
if
there
is
any
virtue
and
if
there
is
anything
praiseworthy—meditate
on
these
things.” Philippians 4:6-8
“Cast
all
your
care
upon
him,
for
He
cares
for
you.”
1
Peter 5:7
“Peace
I
leave
with
you,
My
peace
I
give
to
you;
not
as
the
world
gives
do
I
give
to
you.
Let
not
your
heart
be
troubled, neither let it be afraid.” John 14:27
Jesus
Christ
directly
spoke
of
our
anxiety
during
His
Sermon on the Mount.
“Therefore
I
say
to
you,
do
not
worry
about
your
life,
what
you
will
eat
or
what
you
will
drink;
nor
about
your
body,
what
you
will
put
on.
Is
not
life
more
than
food
and
the
body
more
than
clothing?
Look
at
the
birds
of
the
air,
for
they
neither
sow
nor
reap
nor
gather
into
barns;
yet
your
heavenly
Father
feeds
them.
Are
you
not
of
more
value
than
they?
Which
of
you
by
worrying
can
add
one
cubit
to
his
stature?
So
why
do
you
worry
about
clothing?
Consider
the
lilies
of
the
field,
how
they
grow:
they
neither
toil
nor
spin;
and
yet
I
say
to
you
that
even
Solomon
in
all
his
glory
was
not
arrayed
like
one
of
these.
Now
if
God
so
clothes
the
grass
of
the
field,
which
today
is,
and
tomorrow
is
thrown
into
the
oven,
will
He
not
much
more
clothe
you,
O
you
of
little
faith?
Therefore
do
not
worry,
saying,
‘What
shall
we
eat?’
or
‘What
shall
we
drink?’
or
‘What
shall
we
wear?’
For
after
all
these
things
the
Gentiles
seek.
For
your
heavenly
Father
knows
that
you
need
all
these
things.
But
seek
first
the
kingdom
of
God
and
His
righteousness,
and
all
these
things
shall
be
added
to
you.
Therefore
do
not
worry
about
tomorrow,
for
tomorrow
will
worry
about
its
own
things.
Sufficient
for
the
day is its own trouble.” Matthew 5:25-34
Demonic Fear
When
faced
with
a
significant
challenge
in
life,
and
if
our
faith
is
weak,
we
will
sometimes
worry
about
possible
outcomes—including
those
that
are
not
likely
to
happen—thereby
making
our
anxiety
progressively
worse.
This is when we are “ripe” for a demonic attack.
Evidence
of
a
possible
demonic
attack
includes
the
following:
•
Our anxiety becomes overwhelming.
•
Our
anxiety
transitions
into
fear
because
we
perceive
the object of our fear as real and pending.
•
When
we
“stand
back”
and
look
at
the
facts,
while
it
may
seem
“reasonable”
to
be
anxious,
the
degree
of
our fear is not justified given the situation.
When
we
are
under
demonic
attack,
we
need
to
completely
immerse
ourselves
in
scripture.
This
is
when
we
need
to
completely
hold
onto
God’s
word
and
promises
with
all
of
our
strength.
This
is
also
when
we
need
to
bind
and
rebuke
the
attacker
and
claim
victory
in
Jesus.
Prayer for Demonic Fear
Heavenly
Father,
I
come
before
Your
throne
of
Grace
and
Mercy
to
find
encouragement
and
help
in
my
time
of
need.
Your
word
says
to
not
let
my
heart
be
troubled,
neither
let
it
be
afraid.
My
God,
I
cast
all
my
cares,
all
my
worries,
all
my
anxieties,
all
my
problems,
all
my
doubts,
all
my
fears,
and
all
of
my
needs
concerning
this
problem
upon You.
The
name
of
Jesus,
my
Lord,
takes
authority
over
every
principality;
every
demonic
spirit;
and
spiritual
wickedness
in
high
places.
Therefore,
in
the
name
of
Jesus
I
bind
the
spirit
of
fear
and
cast
it
out
of
my
life.
Satan,
you
have
no
power
over
my
life,
or
anything
that
pertains
to
me
because
the
blood
of
Jesus
Christ
covers
me.
Therefore,
in
the
name
of
Jesus,
you
are
rendered
helpless,
powerless, and ineffective against my life.
Now
Father
I
thank
You
for
delivering
me
from
fear,
and
for
not
allowing
me
to
receive
the
spirit
of
bondage
again
to
fear.
I
thank
You
for
allowing
me
to
rest
in
this
confidence
knowing
that
You
are
for
me
and
with
me.
And
knowing
that
You
are
for
me
and
with
me
I
know
that
there
is
nothing
that
I
will
face
today
that
You
can't
see
me
through.
I
know
that
no
power
is
greater
than
You.
I
can
rest
in
Your
arms
because
nothing
is
strong
enough
to
come
against
me
and
succeed.
I
praise
You
for
this
victory,
and
for
complete
salvation
and
safety,
and
for
Your divine peace that floods my soul.
In the name of Jesus I pray, Amen.
“For
God
has
not
given
us
a
spirit
of
fear,
but
of
power
and of love and of a sound mind.” 2 Timothy 1:7
Sadness
Sadness
is
a
normal
human
emotion
that
we
all
have
experienced,
and
will
experience.
It
includes
feelings
of
grief
when
we
lose
a
loved-one;
disappointment
when
something
in
life
fails
to
meet
our
expectations;
sorrow
due
to
a
regrettable
experience;
despair
when
we
lose
hope;
and
so
forth.
It
is
also
common
for
a
sad
person
to
cry,
laugh
on
occasion,
withdraw
from
human
interaction,
and
become
lethargic.
However,
it
is
a
temporary
emotion
in
that
over
a
period
of
time
sadness
subsides
and we are able to return to our “normal” self.
Depression
is
different
from
sadness
in
that
it
is
not
an
emotion.
Depression
may
be
caused
by
a
serious
life
experience
where
a
return
to
our
“normal”
self
is
unattainable
due
to
a
physical
disorder
and/or
facilitated
by
a
biological
imbalance.
Depression
may
also
occur
for
long
periods
of
time
with
reoccurrences.
In
addition,
depression
substantially
impairs
one’s
ability
to
function
in
life.
You
should
seek
guidance
from
your
pastor
if
you
think
you
are
experiencing
depression.
It
may
also
be
appropriate to discuss it with your doctor.
If
you
are
experiencing
sadness
or
depression,
recovery
is
facilitated
by
exercising
faith,
prayer,
reading
and
internalizing
God’s
word,
fellowshipping
with
other
believers,
confessing
sins
to
God,
and
knowing
you
are
loved
and
forgiven.
It
may
also
be
helpful
to
open
your
heart
and
share
your
feelings
with
a
spiritually
mature
(and trusted) brother or sister in Christ.
“Blessed
be
the
God
and
Father
of
our
Lord
Jesus
Christ,
who
according
to
His
abundant
mercy
has
begotten
us
again
to
a
living
hope
through
the
resurrection
of
Jesus
Christ
from
the
dead,
to
an
inheritance
incorruptible
and
undefiled
and
that
does
not
fade
away,
reserved
in
heaven
for
you,
who
are
kept
by
the
power
of
God
through
faith
for
salvation
ready
to
be
revealed
in
the
last
time.
In
this
you
greatly
rejoice,
though
now
for
a
little
while,
if
need
be,
you
have
been
grieved
by
various
trials,
that
the
genuineness
of
your
faith,
being
much
more
precious
than
gold
that
perishes,
though
it
is
tested
by
fire,
may
be
found
to
praise,
honor,
and
glory
at
the
revelation
of
Jesus
Christ,
whom
having
not
seen
you
love.
Though
now
you
do
not
see
Him,
yet
believing,
you
rejoice
with
joy
inexpressible
and
full
of
glory,
receiving
the
end
of
your
faith—the
salvation
of
your
souls.”
1
Peter 1:3-9
Heavenly
Father,
in
the
name
of
Jesus
Christ,
I
pray
this
study
on
emotions
provides
each
person
with
greater
spiritual
insight
into
their
heart,
soul
and
spirit.
I
also
pray
Holy
Spirit
that
You
use
the
content
of
this
lesson
to
assist
each
person
in
breaking
free
from
the
bondage
of
anything
that
weighs
them
down
and
gets
in
their
way
of
knowing You…especially negative emotions.
Regardless
of
our
situation,
in
Christ
we
are
blessed
beyond our human ability to comprehend!
Harold D. Thomas
Thought-Provoking Questions
The
purpose
of
the
questions
is
to
facilitate
a
deeper
understanding
of
the
Bible,
this
Bible
study
topic
and
ourselves.
The
questions
may
be
answered
by
each
reader,
or
used
by
a
Bible
study
group
leader
or
church
pastor.
The
following
questions
should
be
answered
or
discussed after reading “Emotions.”
There
are
two
types
of
questions:
lesson
and
opinion.
Lesson
questions
(preceded
by
a
number)
are
provided
an
answer.
Opinion
questions
(preceded
by
an
O)
are
designed
to
enhance
learning
via
personal
reflection
and
opinions.
As such, no answers are provided.
Questions
O
Which
of
the
6
basic
emotions
do
you
think
is
most
prevalent in the world today? Explain.
O
How do you define the emotion of anger?
O
What
causes
anger
to
occur
and
grow
within
a
person?
O
What are potential consequences of anger?
O
Why is it difficult for us to forgive?
O
What
would
create
a
compelling
desire
within
a
person
to overcome their anger?
O
How can someone overcome their anger?
O
Who
gains
the
most
benefits
when
one
forgives
another?
1.
What is the difference between fear and anxiety?
O
How prevalent is anxiety in people’s lives?
O
What
is
the
difference
between
earthly
fear
and
Godly
fear? Which is more important and why?
O
Proverbs
1:7
says
fearing
God
is
the
beginning
of
wisdom. How is this true?
O
Which
do
you
prefer:
people
fear
you
or
people
love
you? Which do you think God prefers?
O
What
type
of
encouragement
could
you
provide
to
someone who is experiencing sadness?
O
Are
you
experiencing
a
negative
emotion?
If
yes,
is
it
possible one or both of the following may help?
•
Forgive
because
we
are
forgiven
and
for
personal
healing.
•
Let it go and trust in God.
Answers
1.
Fear
=
Real
threat
or
danger.
Anxiety
=
Perceived
threat or danger.
The questions may be viewed and downloaded via a PDF
file by clicking on this button.
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you
think
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Jesus
Jesus
The words of Jesus Christ
are in red text.