I went to a conference this weekend down in Richmond, VA. According to the map, this shouldn’t be that long of a trip, traveling on major roads and, despite the rain, a nice drive. Wrong.
From what I understand, some of the worst traffic in the country can be found on the highways I was traveling. I can attest to this fact, and I have to say that even the congestion in Los Angeles doesn’t compare. But, in the end, my trip was made better by a cd set that came in the mail the day before.
Spiritual in nature, the presentation was all about emotions, and how so often we allow them to control our lives. Since so many of us are quite stressed these days, emotions seem to pray an ever-increasing role in our lives, and in the lives of those around us.
The emotional rollercoaster we find ourselves on can sometimes be hard to get off, but when we do get off the ride and take back control of our emotions, life can return to the more pleasurable experience it’s meant to be.
Understanding our emotions is not as important as controlling them, but we may need help with this. The first place to start is with God.
This passage from Jeremiah is a good place to start,
For I know well the plans I have in mind for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare, not for woe! Plans to give you a future full of hope. When you call me, when you go to pray to be, I will listen to you. When you look for me, you will find me. Yes, when you seek me with all your heart, you will find me with you, says the Lord, and I will change your lot. (Jeremiah 29:11-14)
As we begin to look at our emotions, and whether they control us or we control them, remember that God does indeed have a plan for us, and despite what may be going on in your life, his long-range plans for us are good and positive. We have to call on him, seek him, and pray to him. If we can do that, then all will be well, not only with our emotions, but with our lives.
