The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.

— Psalm 34:18

In my younger days I struggled to express sadness or fear, thinking they made me look vulnerable. A wise mentor told me, “Emotions are like busy little children. If you don’t acknowledge them, they get louder and louder to grab your attention. Once you acknowledge them, they feel seen and calm down.” This helped me to see my emotions as valid and to understand myself and my needs.

I remember a preacher sharing his own struggles with anxiety. His honesty and reliance on God’s strength gave me the courage to face my own feelings without shame. This was a powerful reminder that even the people we look up to can experience emotional challenges.

A friend once confided in me about struggling with depression. That friend’s openness helped me realize that sharing our emotions with trusted friends can bring comfort and support. Being honest about our feelings can lead to healing and deeper connections.

Psalm 34:18 reassures us that God understands our emotions and is present in our struggles. Normalizing our emotions means acknowledging them, sharing them with people we trust, and seeking God’s comfort and guidance.

Feeling a range of emotions is normal and healthy. When we embrace our emotions, we can grow from our experiences, leading to greater emotional and spiritual well-being.

Lord, help us to express our feelings honestly and to seek your comfort and guidance. Strengthen our faith and patience in you. In Jesus, Amen.