The same is true with our emotions: what lens we see things through shapes what we feel.

The Bible gives us a picture of this in Luke 10:38–42. Jesus visited the home of Martha and Mary. Martha was overwhelmed with preparations while Mary sat quietly at His feet. Martha, frustrated and angry, demanded that Jesus tell Mary to help. But Jesus gently replied that Mary had chosen what was better.

Two sisters. One moment. Two very different emotional responses.

Martha saw stress and unfairness—so she felt anger. Mary saw an opportunity to be with Jesus—so she felt peace.

This is our daily battle. When we view life through the lens of self, our emotions spiral into frustration, jealousy, or emptiness (fruit of man). But when we choose to see through God’s lens, our emotions are steadied by joy, peace, and hope (fruit of the Spirit).

The question becomes: How do we look at our situation through the lens of God?

Here are three ways we can look at our emotions through the lens of God.

3-step guide to managing emotions through God’s perspective:

1. Pause and Name It

Instead of letting emotions control you, stop and ask, “What am I feeling right now?” Naming the feeling (angry, anxious, lonely, overwhelmed) helps you step back from it. Then we can apply His promise to us.

“Be still, and know that I am God.” (Psalm 46:10)

2. Reframe with God’s Word

Once you’ve identified the emotion, filter it through scripture. Ask, “What does God say about this?” Replace what you feel with what He promises.

Fear → “God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind.” (2 Timothy 1:7)

Worry → “Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:7)

Anger → “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.” (James 1:19)

3. Surrender and Shift Your Perspective

Pray, “Lord, help me see this situation the way You do.” When you surrender your perspective to Him, emotions stop being the master and instead point you closer to Christ.

“You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.” (Isaiah 26:3)

The truth is, happiness is fleeting because it depends on circumstances. But joy in Christ is everlasting because it rests on eternity.

Maybe that’s why joy feels elusive for some of us—we want the peace of God without surrendering control to God.

So let me ask you:

Whose lens are you choosing to see through today?

NO matter what your going through, when you view life through His eyes, you’ll find that emotions don’t have to rule you. Instead, they can remind you to lean into the One who gives peace that lasts.

Eddie McDonald