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What does the Bible say about emotions?

Bible Topic · WEB

The Bible teaches that emotions are real gifts of God, yet they must be brought under the renewing rule of his Word and Spirit rather than allowed to govern us. Scripture makes room for weeping and rejoicing with others (Ecclesiastes 3:4; Romans 12:15), while warning against foolish outbursts and anger that gives opportunity to sin (Proverbs 29:11; Ephesians 4:26-27). In anxiety, believers are invited to pray and receive God’s guarding peace (Philippians 4:6-7). The Holy Spirit produces self-control, love, joy, peace, and other fruit in those who walk with him (Galatians 5:16-24). God gives his people courage and a sound mind through Christ (Joshua 1:9; 2 Timothy 1:7).

Top passages, ranked by readers

Rankings: OpenBible.info Topical Bible (CC BY) · Scripture: World English Bible

  • Philippians 4:6-7

    [6] In nothing be anxious, but in everything, by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. [7] And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your thoughts in Christ Jesus.

  • Proverbs 29:11

    A fool vents all of his anger, But a wise man brings himself under control.

  • Galatians 5:16-24

    [16] But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you won't fulfill the lust of the flesh. [17] For the flesh lusts against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; and these are contrary to one other, that you may not do the things that you desire. [18] But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law. [19] Now the works of the flesh are obvious, which are: adultery, sexual immorality, uncleanness, lustfulness, [20] idolatry, sorcery, hatred, strife, jealousies, outbursts of anger, rivalries, divisions, heresies, [21] envyings, murders, drunkenness, orgies, and things like these; of which I forewarn you, even as I also forewarned you, that those who practice such things will not inherit the Kingdom of God. [22] But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, [23] gentleness, and self-control. Against such things there is no law. [24] Those who belong to Christ have crucified the flesh with its passions and lusts.

  • Proverbs 15:18

    A wrathful man stirs up contention, But one who is slow to anger appeases strife.

  • Romans 12:2

    Don't be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what is the good, well-pleasing, and perfect will of God.

  • Ecclesiastes 3:4

    A time to weep, And a time to laugh; A time to mourn, And a time to dance;

  • Joshua 1:9

    Haven't I commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; don't be afraid, neither be dismayed: for Yahweh your God is with you wherever you go.

  • Romans 12:15

    Rejoice with those who rejoice. Weep with those who weep.

  • 2 Timothy 1:7

    For God didn't give us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control.

  • Ephesians 4:26-27

    [26] "Be angry, and don't sin." Don't let the sun go down on your wrath, [27] neither give place to the devil.

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