Controlling Your Emotions

 

Sometimes when we get upset, it can feel like our emotions are taking over and that we just have to react. When this happens, we almost always say or do something we regret later. And then we’ll try to excuse it by saying, “I couldn’t control myself.” But that’s just not true. Galatians 5:23 tells us that self-control is a fruit of the Spirit. This means we can choose to exercise self-control rather than losing control. God’s Word reminds us that we can take charge of our emotions and tell them when to sit down. If we don’t, it can lead to consequences—especially if our words or actions hurt someone else.

The Bible says in James 1:19–20 (NLT), “Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry. Human anger does not produce the righteousness God desires.”

This verse teaches us that we need to take a moment to think before we speak or react. When we’re upset, jealous, or hurt, it’s easy to say something that’s harsh or do something that goes against God’s Word. That’s not what our Heavenly Father wants. He wants us to show self-control and kindness, even when we don’t feel like it. Acting out in anger doesn’t show the kind of heart that takes us higher, instead, letting our emotions rule only pulls us further away from what He wants for us.

Our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, went through a lot of things when he carried out His ministry on earth. If anyone had the right to get upset, it was Him, but He never let anger or any other emotions rule Him. He understands exactly how we feel, so whenever our emotions start to get the best of us, we need to pause and ask for His help. Philippians 4:6–7 (NLT) says, “Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace.” When we go to Him first, He helps us handle our emotions the right way. So remember, our feelings don’t have to control us—we can let God lead us instead.

Prayer

Dear Heavenly Father,

Please help me to stay calm when I feel angry, sad, or frustrated. Teach me to pause and talk to You before I react. Thank You for understanding how I feel and for giving me peace when I need it most. In the precious and powerful name of Jesus Christ I pray, amen. 

Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Wheaton, Illinois 60189. All rights reserved.

“Controlling Your Emotions”, written for aheartforchristdevotions.blogspot.com by Kraiapril©2025. All rights reserved. All done to the glory of God through Jesus Christ, our Lord!