Avoidance

Week 5

Avoidance

My soul is crushed with grief to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with me.

Mark 14:34

You may be surprised to hear that what people avoid most in this world is emotion. Emotions, such as sadness, anger, fear, or loneliness, are powerful and we are afraid we would lose control if we feel them. Some also judge Christians feeling certain emotions as not having enough faith. The truth is emotions are created by God and Jesus felt all of them. When you feel mad at someone and punch them, it is your action, not your emotion, that led you to do wrong. You can feel an emotion and not act on it. Emotions inform you of what you are experiencing to take action, understand your need, avoid danger, make decisions, and connect with others. In Mark 14:34, Jesus felt painful grief and connected with the disciples asking for their company. When you are in touch with your emotions, you understand yourself and others. Those who are out of touch with their emotions experience numbness, detachment, and disconnection. There are many ways people avoid emotions: drinking, using drugs, using the Internet excessively, pushing people away, overworking, or helping others. You should feel all emotions and let God guide your actions.    

God, Help me feel my emotions to take actions that glorify You. In Jesus’ Name, I pray. Amen.