Feel the Feels: Processing Emotions Through a Biblical Lens

Trauma is a heavy topic, one that many of us prefer to avoid. Yet, as we head into our sermon series, “Never Alone (Trauma)”, we want to encourage you to think of trauma not just as an overwhelming event but as the impact it has on us as we experience it. One way to address trauma is by learning to process our feelings rather than suppressing or ignoring them. I want to highlight the importance of “feeling the feels,” why it’s critical to avoid being stuck in negative thought patterns, and how Scripture gives us tools to navigate our emotional journey, drawing from those who have done so before us.

“Feeling the feels” means allowing yourself to sit with your emotions, no matter how uncomfortable they may be. It’s acknowledging your sadness, anger, fear, or confusion without running away or numbing yourself. This process builds a “window of tolerance,” or the capacity to handle big emotions without being overwhelmed. The more we allow ourselves to sit with our feelings, the larger our window of tolerance becomes.

But why is it important for Christians to feel deeply? Because God created us as emotional beings, and the Bible is filled with raw, honest expressions of emotion. Consider David’s Psalms, where he openly laments, rejoices, and even questions God. These writings remind us that it’s not sinful to feel deeply—it’s human. It’s how He created us!

When we deny our feelings, we risk stuffing them away, much like a cluttered room. Outwardly, everything might seem fine, but inside, chaos brews. It reminds me of the meme where the house is on fire, and the guy is sitting in the middle saying, “It’s fine.” Sometimes, it’s not fine, and it’s okay to say so! Trauma “stuffed” into hidden corners can fester, disconnecting us from God, others, and ourselves. To process trauma, we must first unpack those hidden corners and honestly confront our emotions. God reveals our hurts so that we can heal.

While it’s vital to process emotions, there’s a danger in getting stuck in negative feelings or catastrophizing—a thought pattern where we repeatedly imagine the worst-case scenario. For instance, after a difficult day, it’s easy to spiral into thoughts like, “This will never get better,” or, “I’ll always feel this way.”

This is where Scripture provides incredible wisdom. In 2 Corinthians 10:5, Paul instructs us to “take every thought captive to obey Christ.” What does this mean practically? It means actively challenging negative thoughts with the truth of God’s Word. Paul understood that our thoughts shape our actions, and our actions shape our lives. In a way, Paul was practicing what modern psychology calls Cognitive Behavioral Therapy—changing our thoughts to change our feelings and behaviors. Paul was the OG of CBT!

Instead of letting catastrophic thoughts dominate, Scripture invites us to focus on God’s promises. For example:

• When you feel unworthy: “I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made” (Psalm 139:14).
• When you feel hopeless: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope” (Jeremiah 29:11).

By meditating on these truths, we can move from despair to hope, just as David often did in the Psalms.

One of the most practical ways to “take thoughts captive” is through journaling. Writing down your feelings, thoughts, and prayers can help you process your emotions and reflect on God’s work in your life. This practice allows you to pour out your heart, much like the lamentations in the Bible. Consider these examples:

• Lamentations 3:19-24: Jeremiah openly grieves but then recalls God’s faithfulness: “The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning.”

• Psalm 42: David wrestles with his despair yet ends with hope: “Why are you cast down, O my soul? Hope in God; for I shall again praise him.”

Journaling these reflections can help you identify patterns, recognize God’s hand in your life, and grow in gratitude even during difficult seasons.

Here’s a simple structure for your journal entries:

• Feel: Write down your raw emotions. What are you feeling, and why? Don’t hold back, and don’t censor yourself. Journal the good, the bad, and the ugly.
  
  
• Process: Reflect on how these emotions align with God’s Word. Are your thoughts and emotions aligned with God’s truth in Scripture?
  
  
• Respond: Note one truth from Scripture that speaks to your situation. How can this truth guide your next steps?

Processing emotions biblically requires balance. On one hand, we must be honest about our pain. On the other, we must anchor ourselves in the hope of Christ. The Gospel assures us that we are never alone in our trauma. Jesus Himself experienced deep emotional and physical anguish, yet He entrusted Himself to the Father. Through His death and resurrection, He offers us healing and restoration.

So, as you “feel the feels,” remember that God meets you in your pain. He doesn’t just ask you to process your emotions—He equips you with His Word, the community of believers, and tools like journaling to help you grow. Most importantly, He promises to carry you through to the other side of your suffering.

As Psalm 34:18 reminds us, “The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.” This is the ultimate comfort: you are not alone. In Christ, there is healing, hope, and a future filled with His steadfast love.

By taking this approach—processing our feelings, challenging negative thoughts, and anchoring ourselves in God’s truth—we can expand our emotional capacity and experience His peace, even in the midst of life’s storms. So grab a journal, open your Bible, and begin the healing journey today.

Feeling overwhelmed? We’re here for you.

Life can be tough, but you don’t have to go it alone. Christ Greenfield Cares offers a variety of resources to support your mental, emotional, and spiritual health, including:

• Confidential Counseling

A safe space to talk through your challenges with caring, licensed professionals or experienced faith-based counselors.

• Support Groups

Topics include grief, divorce, cancer support, and financial stress—connecting you with others who understand your journey.

• Classes and Workshops

Learn practical skills, like navigating tough conversations or improving communication in relationships.

You don’t have to face life’s challenges alone. Explore our offerings and take the first step toward healing and growth today!