While we have many words to describe the constant wave of emotions we feel on a regular basis, there are actually only five. They are: Glad, Mad, Bad, Sad & Scared. In the following post, you will learn what they mean, what they need, and what God has to say about them.

In an ideal world, our needs are being met by the Lord and also by people here on earth in healthy relationships. Sometimes, however, we cannot get certain needs met in our relationships. Because we are imperfect beings, the time will surely come when someone will let you down. This can be incredibly disappointing, as it is a desire of our hearts to connect with the ones we love on an emotionally intimate level.

The good news is that God will never let us down in the fulfillment of what he created us to experience. Our only role is to seek him and to receive it. So, when you experience let down from those around you, remember that the One who created you will never let you down. In Him, everything we could ever want or need is satisfied.

Glad

Glad is what we experience when our expectations are either met or exceeded. There are numerous synonyms to the feeling of ‘glad’, such as: happy, excited, joyful, ecstatic, elated, etc.

What Glad Needs: to be shared.

When you find out you received a promotion at work, what do you do? Call someone! When you find out you’re expecting a child, after months or even years of trying, what is your first response? To share the joy with the one(s) you love!

We can also experience Glad in the presence of Jesus. When we praise Him, we receive joy. Simultaneously, it brings Him joy.

Our hearts were meant to praise with gladness. When we experience joy, we can experience the fullness of sharing it by praising God first. This is perhaps why it is a natural desire of our hearts to seek connection with others. We want intimacy when we feel pleased.

Scripture

Isaiah 55:12
For you shall go out in joy and be led forth in peace; the mountains and the hills before you shall break forth into singing, and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands.
Proverbs 14:10
The heart knows it’s own bitterness, and no stranger shares its joy.
Philippians 1:7
For I have derived much joy and comfort from your love, my brother, because the hearts of the saints have been refreshed through you.
Luke 24:52
And they worshiped him and returned to Jerusalem with great joy...

Authored by Jessica Jeans & Lauren Preusz

Content inspired by Linda Tonnesen and Carl Barry, founder of Shadow Work.

Emotion 1: Glad

Glad

Scripture