Processing your emotions: Why it matters and how to do it right
- yamell mcintosh
- Dec 13, 2024
- 3 min read
Have you ever felt overwhelmed by sadness, frustration, or even anger, unsure of what to do next? Maybe you’ve felt guilty for feeling upset or ashamed for being sad. Emotions can be messy, but they’re part of God’s design to help us navigate life, grow spiritually, and connect with others.
Processing your emotions in a healthy way isn’t just about finding peace—it’s about embracing the tools God has given us to live a fulfilled life. Let’s explore why it matters, how therapeutic principles can help, and what Jesus’ example teaches us.
Why Processing Emotions Matters
When emotions go unprocessed, they don’t disappear. Instead, they manifest in unhealthy ways—stress, strained relationships, or even physical symptoms. Psychologically, unresolved emotions can lead to anxiety, depression, or burnout.
But emotions themselves aren’t the problem. They’re like flashing lights on a dashboard, signaling areas that need attention. Processing them allows us to understand their root causes, respond with wisdom, and grow.
As the Bible says:
"A fool gives full vent to his spirit, but a wise man quietly holds it back." — Proverbs 29:11
This verse isn’t about ignoring emotions but about managing them with wisdom and self-control.
Biblical Examples of Jesus Processing Emotions
1. Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane
Before His crucifixion, Jesus experienced overwhelming sorrow and distress. He expressed these emotions openly, saying, “My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death” (Matthew 26:38).
What did Jesus do? He Prayed: Jesus brought His emotions to God, asking for guidance and strength.
He Acknowledged His Feelings: He didn’t deny His fear or sorrow but processed them through prayer and trust.
He Took Action: After seeking God’s will, Jesus moved forward with courage and faith.
This shows us that it’s okay to feel deeply, as long as we process those feelings with honesty and reliance on God.
2. Jesus Weeping for Lazarus
When Jesus’ friend Lazarus died, He knew He would raise him from the dead. Yet, Jesus still took time to grieve, weeping alongside Mary, Martha, and others.
"Jesus wept." — John 11:35
What does this teach us?
It’s okay to feel emotions even when you know things will improve: Jesus didn’t suppress His grief, even though He had hope.
Empathy matters: By weeping with those who weep, Jesus showed us the power of being present with others in their pain.
Grief has a purpose: Processing grief is part of healing and connecting with those around us.
Jesus’ example reminds us that emotions are not weaknesses—they’re opportunities to grow closer to God and others.
Therapeutic Principles for Processing Emotions
1. Name Your Emotions
Labeling your emotions helps reduce their intensity. Instead of saying, “I’m overwhelmed,” try identifying the specific feeling: “I’m frustrated,” “I’m hurt,” or “I’m disappointed.”
Research shows that naming emotions engages the logical part of your brain, helping you feel more in control.
2. Validate Your Feelings
Remind yourself that your emotions are valid, even if they’re uncomfortable. For example: “It’s okay to feel upset. This is a natural response to what I’ve experienced.”
Validation doesn’t mean letting emotions control you; it means honoring them as part of your human experience.
3. Bring Your Emotions to God
Like Jesus in Gethsemane, bring your emotions to God in prayer. Share your struggles and ask for His peace.
"Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you." — 1 Peter 5:7
4. Take Healthy Action
Once you’ve processed your emotions, decide how to move forward. This might mean setting a boundary, seeking reconciliation, or simply giving yourself time to heal.
Encouragement for Your Journey
Processing emotions takes practice, but it’s worth it. Each time you work through your feelings instead of ignoring or suppressing them, you grow stronger, wiser, and more connected to God.
Remember, emotions are not your enemy—they’re tools God gave you to navigate life. When processed correctly, they lead to growth, healing, and peace.
"The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." — Psalm 34:18
When we process emotions with wisdom, grace, and faith, we not only find healing but also become a source of light and strength for those around us. God designed your emotions as tools for growth and connection, and He is ready to guide you through them.
Let’s Reflect Together
What emotions have you been avoiding or suppressing? How can you bring them to God and process them with His guidance?
Let’s take this journey together. Share below: What’s one emotion you’ve been working on processing, and how has God helped you grow? Your story might inspire someone else.
By embracing your emotions with God’s wisdom, you’ll find peace, healing, and a deeper connection to Him and those around you. Letting go of the fear of emotions isn’t just freeing—it’s transformational.