2.3 Is It Okay To Feel This Way?

Passions

In Christian writings, emotions are often called passions.

They are gifts from God that help us to make connections between the life of the senses (outside world) and the life of the mind (inner self).

They encourage us to act or not act and make choices between good and evil.

Emotions

We cannot choose our emotions but we can choose how we respond to our emotions.

They can lead to virtues (goodness) or vices (evil) – they are neither good or bad themselves

Our passions and emotions call us to turn our hearts more towards God.

They remind us of our need for God and our dependence on God

Emotions Cont’d

When we feel strong emotions, we must ask ourselves 2 things

1) Why do I feel this way?

2) What choices for action do I have?

Anger is often a sign that something needs to change. What needs to change for God’s will to happen? What can I do to help bring that change in a loving and life giving way?

Love can be a sign of great potential. What can I do to bring out the best in the other and in myself?

Hate shows that evil is present or threatening. What destructive forces do I need to face?

Emotions

Each emotion calls us to turn our hearts more towards God.

They remind us of our need for God and our dependence on God.