This reminded me of the three purposes of emotions. We hear so often the phrase, “Just follow your heart.” This is about the worse advice you can get, for the Lord says our heart is deceitful and wicked. Emotions are not to lead us. I believe that God did give them to us for a purpose, three in fact. This is from my observation, and study of scripture, but not exactly biblical.

First, emotions are for us to enjoy: a beautiful sunset, a fine concert, an enjoyable evening with friends, a delicious meal. God Himself enjoys such things. It is His good pleasure to have us as His children. Ephesians 1:5, “…Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will.”

Second, emotions are  to warn us, especially the “negative” ones: anger, jealousy, fear, pride, revenge, unforgiveness. They warn us that we are thinking and desiring wrongly. They are like red lights on the dashboard of life, intended to warn us of some  impending danger, not to guide us. The red oil light does not mean turn right at the next  corner, it means, “Stop right now and check things out!”

The third purpose of emotions is to encourage us, motivate us, arouse us to positive action. We’ve all been in a situation of hopelessness, when someone spoke up, “Come on, we can do  this! On your feet, let’s go!” Our emotions arise and we press on to the task.

This is what happened to me as the Lord reminded me that He will help me. It is our part to listen and allow our emotions to be stirred to obedience, not to lead us, but to encourage us.

So, Love the Lord your God with all your heart, strength, mind and soul, and love your neighbor, no matter how difficult he may be!

Picture: something to stir your positive emotions: