Today I was reminded of something.

I was reminded that's its normal to feel.  That a part of being human is having emotions.  And a part of having emotions is realizing that different days can bring out different feelings.

I think that as Christians once you reach a certain level of adulthood, it can be easy to feel like we are supposed to be joyful and peaceful at all times.  So any negative deviation from this can be stressful and frustrating.

Have you ever entertained thoughts like the following?

What's wrong with me?
I'm a Christian, shouldn't I be happy all the time?
Why does this get me down?
What am I supposed to do with these feelings?

Tonight, I read a blog that encouraged me.  The blog is from John Eldredge author of books like Wild at Heart and Captivating.

http://blog.ransomedheart.com/

I really enjoy his style of writing.   Books like Epic and Waking the Dead- the Glory of a Heart Fully alive are beautiful, inspiring, creative, and hopeful.

But to read some of his blogs, I realize that this writer of incredible worship-filled books, still struggles with emotions.

It's part of life.  Perhaps especially if you are given to poetic and contemplative thoughts.

So then, what do you do?

I really like the verse that John shared on his blog.  It's from Proverbs 4:23 and it says "Above all else guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.

Also, interesting is the French translation, "Garde ton coeur plus que toute autre chose, Car de lui viennent les sources de la vie."

Interestingly I translate the last  part to say, from it (your heart) comes the sources of life.

So, while its natural to feel emotions like discouragement, worry, frustration, and sadness, we must guard our hearts against dwelling there and making a pattern of despair.

If you are feeling down, I recommend seeking to understand your feelings, talking with a trusted friend or family member and engaging in activities that bring peace and inspiration to your day.

But at the core of our hearts we must believe that God loves us.  God has a plan for our lives.  God is sovereign over all things and He makes everything beautiful in His time.   He is our redeemer our friend and our rescuer.  And He is preparing a home for us that will be incredible beyond our imagination of wonder.

God is good! And He can handle our grumpy moments and our exhilarating moments and everything in between.  With His help we are more than conquerers through Him who loves us.