Helpful Tips to Overcome Negative Emotions

Do you struggle with overcoming negative emotions? You’re not alone! Here are a few tips, encouragements, and biblical truths to help you tackle them head-on.

Anger: Know Your Boiling Point

We’ve all dealt with anger. It often starts as a harmless feeling…but can quickly grow into something dangerous and hard to control. See, it’s not feeling anger that’s an issue—it’s when we choose to act or dwell on those feelings. The Bible says, “In your anger, do not sin”…(Ephesians 4:26 NIV). The best thing we can do is go to God immediately. Don’t repeatedly think about what made you angry. Instead, make the choice to give it to God by asking for His help right way!

Next Steps to Overcoming Anger

Read: Ephesians 4:26-27; Romans 12:21; James 1:19-20

Jealousy: Conquer the Green-Eyed Monster

Jealousy can pop up when we least expect it! And if we let it, it will steal our peace. The best way to stop jealousy is to remember this simple truth: God made you to be unique and special. And there is no one else who can be a better you. Set your mind to be happy for others, and decide to trust God with yourself!

Next Steps to Overcoming Jealousy

Read: Proverbs 14:30, 27:4; 1 Corinthians 13:4-5; James 3:16

Reflect on the areas you feel most vulnerable to feeling jealous. Why do you think that is? What are some areas where God has made you unique and special?

Guilt: Be Forgiven…and Then Forget

We all make mistakes! We’ve all felt badly about a poor decision or something we said that we sure wish we hadn’t. But there’s a difference between acknowledging our sin and choosing to repent…and feeling constantly condemned over it. When we repent, God forgives us (Psalm 103:12; 1 John 1:9). So we need to learn to trust His judgment and forgive ourselves, too.

Next Steps to Overcoming Guilt

Read: Philippians 3:12-13

Pray: “Lord, thank You for Your amazing mercy. When I feel shame about my past, please remind me of Your love and grace. Help me see myself the same way You see me, and guide me down the path You’ve set for me toward peace and freedom. In Jesus’ name, amen.”

Fear: Fight Fear with Faith

Fear is one of the most common emotions we face. It can take many forms: worry, anxiety, panic, or even dread. Simply put, fear saps our joy. But it doesn’t have to! The best thing you can do is take your worries to your heavenly Father. Remember, whatever you’re struggling with today, God is bigger than your problems. And it’s because of Him that we can confidently say, “The Lord is my Helper—I will not fear” (Hebrews 13:6).

Next Steps to Overcoming Fear

Read: Jeremiah 29:11; Philippians 4:6; Hebrews 13:6; Psalm 23:6

Write down some of the fears you’re facing, today. When you start feeling afraid, practice actively taking your worries to God in the moment.

Self-Pity: Climb Out of the Pit

When bad things happen or when we feel like life isn’t “fair,” it’s easy to feel sorry for ourselves. Self-pity isn’t productive; it prevents us from growing and moving forward! You can be pitiful or powerful, but not both. When you feel self-pity rising up, pray and thank God for the blessings you already have. Ask Him to help give you an attitude of gratitude in your current situation. It may be hard at first, but as your thinking changes, you’ll be amazed at how your life transforms.

Next Steps to Overcoming Self-Pity

Read: Psalm 28:7; Proverbs 3:5; John 16:33

Make a list of all the ways God has already blessed you. What are some of the ways He’s helped you in the past? How might He be helping you, now?

Looking for More?

If you found these tips helpful, then we have good news. There’s so much more! Visit joycemeyer.org/study today, and choose from a list of amazing FREE studies to grow in wisdom and the Word.

You don’t have to live on an emotional roller coaster. Discover how God’s Word can steady your heart and renew your strength. Read this article and take your next step toward emotional stability.