Do you realize that we are all blessed with emotions? Emotions are a gift from God, designed to help us connect, empathize, and experience life deeply. The openness of our heart often determines how vividly we feel these emotions. I’ve often been told that I wear my heart on my sleeve, and honestly, I wouldn’t have it any other way. I believe that if you’re going to do something, you should give it 100% of your heart—otherwise, why even bother?
1. Emotions Are Not a Weakness, They Are a Strength
For years, I thought I was cursed with too much emotion. After all, I’m a man, right? And aren’t men supposed to keep their emotions in check? I used to think shedding a tear during an inspirational movie was something to hide. But I’ve learned that there’s power in vulnerability. One personal moment that stands out is when I sat Sandy on the bed after 2-3 years of being sober and I told her to now tell me everything I did to you during our beginning years when I was drunk and how you felt. We both shedded tears in that moment. I couldn’t hold back tears, and instead of judgment, I found connection. That moment deepened our relationship, and I realized that showing emotion not only brought healing but also opened doors I never expected.
Scripture Reflection: “Jesus wept.” —John 11:35. The shortest verse in the Bible holds some of the deepest significance. In just two words, we see the heart of God. If the Son of God Himself could openly weep, why should we hold back our tears? Our emotions allow us to reflect the heart of Christ, who felt deeply for humanity.
2. Emotions Build Connection and Compassion
God gave us emotions to help us relate to others. Without them, life would feel sterile and disconnected. Can you imagine a world where everyone’s heart was cold? I’ve met people who suppress their emotions, and they rarely seem joyful. On the other hand, those who embrace their emotions tend to live fuller, richer lives. I remember a friend telling me how my vulnerability during a difficult season helped him open up about his struggles. That emotional connection led to healing for both of us.
Scripture Reflection: “Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.” — Romans 12:15. Our emotions equip us to walk alongside others, sharing in their joys and sorrows.
3. Passion Is a Driving Force
Passion is the fire that moves mountains. A life without passion is a life half-lived. If you find yourself drifting without direction, it may be time to ask: What am I truly passionate about? Passion ignites purpose and fuels perseverance. I remember struggling in things that didn’t align with my calling. It wasn’t until I leaned into my passion for ministry and writing that I felt truly alive. That shift changed everything.
Scripture Reflection: “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord.” — Colossians 3:23. God calls us to put our whole heart into whatever we do. Passion honors Him.
4. Passion Inspires and Motivates Others
Passion is contagious. When you’re around passionate people, their energy rubs off on you. People are drawn to passion, not titles. History is filled with examples of leaders who stirred nations simply because their passion was undeniable. I think of times I’ve felt stagnant, only to be reignited by the passion of a mentor or friend. Their enthusiasm sparked something in me.
Scripture Reflection: “For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love, and self-discipline.” — 2 Timothy 1:7. Passion is part of the Spirit’s work in our lives, empowering us to act boldly.
5. Emotions Reflect the Image of God
We are created in the image of God, who feels deeply. The Bible shows us that God experiences joy, grief, anger, and love. Our emotions mirror His heart. Denying them distances us from His design. I often remind myself that feeling deeply is part of bearing God’s image, and that gives me peace when I’m overwhelmed by emotion.
Scripture Reflection: “The Lord your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in his love he will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing.” — Zephaniah 3:17. Imagine God singing over you—His emotions are vast and beautiful.
6. Emotions Shouldn’t Control Us, But They Should Guide Us
While emotions are a gift, they aren’t meant to dictate our decisions. I’ve seen people so consumed by emotion that they struggle to move forward. The goal is to embrace our emotions without being ruled by them. In times of emotional overwhelm, I’ve learned to pause and pray, asking God to reveal the path forward through His peace.
Scripture Reflection: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.” — Proverbs 3:5. Our emotions are valuable, but we must ultimately be led by faith and wisdom.
7. Live Life with Heart and Purpose
Years ago, Tim Tebow was mocked for crying after a big game. People called him less of a man, but I disagree. Passionate living means caring deeply. If you’re living life fully, emotions are inevitable. Why live any other way? “I remember, at times, tearing up after major accomplishments. Instead of feeling embarrassed, I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude. God had brought me through, and my emotions were a testimony to His faithfulness.”
Scripture Reflection: “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” — John 10:10. God desires for us to experience life abundantly, which includes embracing our emotions.