You know the ole' sayings:

There are several encouraging statements like this, that when applied to our life, act as fact, and cause us to abandon our own personal thoughts of pity, sadness or lack thereof. However, there are times when situations occur and we feel as though we are the only one alive, the only one involved, or the only one going through or experiencing a hardship. Words of encouragement don't seem to help, but seem to further the agony and almost taunt us in our situation. Who can determine how bad a problem is, looking on the outside in?

Of course there are many, many people who are experiencing a much harder time than what we may be experiencing, but during our down moment, the thing we are going through is equal to the worst situation that someone else is going through. Though it may not be as great, but the loss of a job to a primary caretaker of a family of four can feel just as painful as someone going through a divorce after 20 years of marriage. Feelings of rejection, failure, and fear begin to surface in moments of despair.

Is it "Ok" to sulk in our own pity, from time to time? Is it "normal" to be depressed after tragedy? I was taught that it is not "faith" or we are not being confident in God when we go through and allow our emotions and feelings to come to the surface. I'm not sure about you, but I go through hardships in my faith, and at times my emotions arise and get in the way. And guess what? I'm glad when they do because I feel completely human. During those moments, I am reminded God is able. I am assured there is a better way down the road, and that my present state is going to work out for my good.  At times, I feel better when and after I cry. I'm comfortable with being angry, without sinning (Ephesians 4:26). I feel relieved when I tell someone who hurt me how I feel. I can share and experience emotions without sinning. My faith and belief in Christ doesn't make me a doormat or a weak person. It makes me a stronger individual who operates in the spirit of boldness and love.

Jesus was not happy, but heavy in His spirit, about going to Calvary's cross (Matthew 26:38), He prayed for God to allow the cup to pass, if it was His will (Matthew 26:39). Jesus showed emotion when he saw selling taking place in the temple (Matthew 21:12), by flipping tables and driving the people out. 

I cannot be a fake. When I show that I am human, not superhuman or super religious, but a human being who is a Christian, I tend to draw more people to Christ. I am able to show them that Christ can dwell in an individual who makes mistakes and doesn't try to be perfect, but rather is striving for perfection, or maturity. There is a liberty that comes with salvation. A liberty that should make you feel free and confident in who you are. If you must sulk, sulk. Angry? Ok, but don't sin. If you feel depressed, feel depressed, but don't stay there. Just know in Christ, those feelings won't last for long, they can't because you carry the Spirit of Christ Jesus and the Spirit of Christ Jesus that dwells on the inside of you will soon quicken you, and bring life to your body (Romans 8:11). It will begin to bring new life and the Holy Spirit will assure you, the light afflictions that you bear are only for a moment, and can't be compared to that which God has for you (2 Corinthians 4:17). 



 
If you are experiencing negative emotions, I want to encourage your spirit and speak life to your situation. Trouble cannot last always, because the Bible tells that there is a time and a season for everything (Ecclesiastes 3:1). It's time for your sadness to turn into gladness and your mourning, dancing (Psalm 30:11). Be strengthened, in the Lord!