Understanding your emotions is only part of the battle. The next challenge is knowing how to express them.
Four Steps:
- Identify the “what” and the “why” of your feelings. Don’t be afraid to admit such emotions as anger, anxiety, sadness, or disappointment. Psalm 143:3-4, 7
- Take a time out to pray about what you’re feeling. Make a habit of bringing your emotions to God first, not as an afterthought. Psalm 143:8-11, Philippians 4:6-7
- Seek counsel from a trusted friend. Ask them for honest feedback about what you’re feeling or how to respond. Proverbs 12:15
- Make a productive plan that invites peace, first for yourself and then for others. Be intentional about following through on your plan. Isaiah 26:3, Romans 12:18
Discussion:
- Initial reactions to this topic? What jumped out at you?
- Describe the emotional temperature in your home growing up. What did you learn about emotions from your family?
- Review Aristotle’s challenge and read Ephesians 4:29. Why is the expression of emotions so complex?
- Read Psalm 143:3-4,7. Identify all the emotions David names in these verses. Why is there power to naming how you feel?
- What are your unhealthy tendencies in expressing your emotions? How have those tendencies impacted those closest to you? According to Psalm 143:8-11 and Philippians 4:6-7, what should you do?
- Read Proverbs 12:15. Share a time when you sought counsel from someone and they helped to change your perspective. Why is it wise to seek advice from a trusted friend before acting on an emotion? What do you risk if you don’t?
- Read Isaiah 26:3 and Romans 12:18. What do you think it means to first make peace with yourself? How can we take this too far? What does it look like to make peace with others? Does peace always mean a restored relationship with someone? Explain.
- Is there a step you need to take based on today’s topic?
