Underlying Emotions

The pathway to spiritual maturity

I recently recorded a few episodes of the podcast that will begin rolling out soon. The episodes focus on understanding the benefits and challenges with anger, resentment, envy, and grief. I have spent several years counseling clients through situations, experiences, and seasons of their lives filled with these emotions. In sessions I always make a point to communicate the importance of feeling our feelings. I encourage self reflection and purposeful pausing to tap into underlying problems that are not so visible. What I’ve found is that going beyond the surface to identify root issues becomes a spiritual journey.

As I’ve explored my own growth over the years, I’m learning that exposing and addressing root issues allows us to love ourselves and others better. My own issues with grief, envy, and fear kept me from connecting with others at times. It also caused me to struggle with setting and reinforcing boundaries. My journey has been filled with highs and lows that have taught me about me. What comes to mind the most is learning what love is, as God commands us too love.

1 Corinthians Ch ^{13 v 4} Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. ⁵ It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. ⁶ Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. ⁷ It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.”

This chapter in 1st Corinthians has such a beautiful illustration of love that convicts and compels me to go deeper. I desire to pattern my life after this scripture because the Holy Spirit has consistently whispered a call for me to sow seeds of love, yet when I read the words above I see my limitations. I have never loved like this consistently. Yet in reading it, I recognize that the ability to see and accept my limitations is indeed a gift and opportunity to see and live in the mercy, grace, and provision of God. It is a reminder of his perfect power.

Becoming more aware of Gods perfect love for me, helps to explore what is hindering me from giving a receiving that love. If love is patient and kind; what underlying issues or feelings are disrupting my ability to be patient and kind. I’ve found that when I’m afraid, doubting, or disappointed I’m not patient. When I’m completely honest about the underlying problem, I can take the unfiltered issues to God, tackle the maladaptive thinking, and move forward. As I move forward with a better understanding, and a deeper relationship with the father, I begin to grow spiritually.

Emotional development and healing are building blocks for spiritual maturity. Be willing to go into deep waters where transformation happens. There is always a life guard on duty. Ask the Holy Spirit to go with you and reveal what’s under the surface.

~Jamie Johnson, LCSW