Emotions God’s Way

James 5:13 — “Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing praises.”

Humanity has been given the beautiful capacity to feel. Emotions are God-given; they allow us to respond to the world around us and reveal what is happening deep within our souls. Our feelings are not meant to be suppressed or ignored, but expressed through the right channels—those that honor God and nurture our hearts.

James directs us toward two of life’s most common emotions: sorrow and joy. When life feels heavy and the weight of suffering presses in, we are invited to pray. Pouring out our stress, fear, and anguish before God brings release and renewal. It reminds us that we have a loving Father who both cares deeply and has the power to act. In prayer, we find help in our time of need.

On the other end of the emotional spectrum is joy. When our hearts overflow with gladness, James instructs us to sing praises. Praise transforms joy into worship—it turns our gaze from the gift to the Giver. Expressing gratitude keeps our hearts grounded, reminding us that every good and perfect gift comes from above.

Whether you are walking through sorrow or celebrating joy, take your emotions to God. He is the one who understands them fully, receives them completely, and gives fulfillment in return.

With Gratitude, Pastor Jesse