Basic TrainingBible MinistriesGene CunninghamBasic Training Bible Ministries KBKnowledge Base

What is emotion?

Emotion is the center of our capacity for living and enjoying physical and spiritual life. Our capacity for a wonderful life, regardless of external circumstances, increases the more we are oriented to the Word.

When emotion is not under the control of God, it becomes a tyrant and a heartless despot that rules and dictates our lives. This results in a rollercoaster of emotional revolt, where a person is lifted to dizzying heights only to be dropped on their face on the rocks below.

To move beyond subjective emotions and orient to God's reality, we must allow the Word of God to become practical and experiential in our lives through the love of the Holy Spirit. This allows us to understand that we are forever "accepted in the beloved" (Eph. 1:6).

Also asked: What is the definition of emotion in a biblical context?
Also asked, more loosely
What happens to emotions when they are not governed by a relationship with God? · How does the Bible describe the role of emotions in a person's life?

Source: The Basics The Basics -- Subject Index entry 'Emotion' (printed pp. 137, 138, 192) · Read this lesson in the book →

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Lesson 3–2: The Danger—Spiritual Retreat/Reversion

Lesson 4–2: Perception—Discernment

Lesson 3–3: The Promise—Spirituality

Lesson 4–1: Perspective—Grace

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