Your Emotions, Your Choice

By: Kathie Welch

Monday, September 22, 2025

Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13 (NKJV)

The past few weeks have been emotionally draining. There was another school shooting, a murder on a train, and an assassination—all of this weighed heavily on our hearts. Personally, I've felt so drained, I desperately needed peace and my hope in humanity restored.

But when I read Romans 15:13, I had to admit I had missed the mark regarding hope. I didn't have God’s hope! In times like this, it's important to know the difference between God’s hope and the world’s hope.

1. God's hope is based on His unfailing promises. The world’s hope isn't guaranteed or assured.
2. God’s hope fills us with joy and peace. The world’s hope is filled with anxiety, tension, and stress.
3. God’s hope is empowered by the Holy Spirit. The world’s hope is fueled by human ideas and understanding.

If we aren't careful, our emotions can cause our thoughts to spiral downward. That's why it's vitally important for us to take charge of our emotions. How we feel (our emotions) can powerfully influence our personal direction, but that can't be what directs our lives. When our emotions get the best of us, it's like a runaway train whose brakes have failed. As Christ followers, our emotions are subject to our will. Think about that for a moment... The Holy Spirit inside you enables you to take charge your emotions and control where they take you.

Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. Colossians 3:2

People and events can trigger our emotions, but thanks to Jesus, it's entirely up to us how we'll respond. In other words, we don’t have to respond to every dramatic news alert or keep obsessing about horrible events.

1. Don't spend time thinking about things that are depressing, discouraging, or inflammatory.
2. Pray over your emotions—your fear, anger, doubt, and anxiety. Ask God to help you control them.
3. Trust God's promises. His peace transcends all understanding and guards our minds (Philippians 4:7)

Dedicate time for God. Spend time each day reading God's Word. Know God’s promises and believe He has a purpose for your life. The scriptures are our refuge when we face overwhelming news or circumstances. Memorize or write down a few key verses that will help you to focus on God when your emotions start rising.

If you're following Jesus, you are empowered by the Holy Spirit. Abound in God's hope! Remember, how we respond to our emotions is a choice... Choose wisely!