The G Word

   "Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles." 1 Corinthians 1:3-4

G-God

R-Reigns

I-In

E-Every

F-Feeling

  This acronym was created during Sunday's service as tears rolled down my face yet again. I couldn't tell you what the teaching was about except it was the Advent week celebrating Joy. 

  Joy seems really far away...at least, today it does. But that's part of the healing journey, isn't it? 

  So, what does the acronym really mean? Lord? You inspired it. Help me understand, please.

  Feelings are fine. God made us this way. Since we were created in His image, God has them, too.  He has felt or experienced everything humanity has.  

  Feelings in and of themselves are not evil. Perhaps some of them are unpleasant. But there are others that aren't. At least I hope so.

  But what happens when good feelings end up twisted and deformed by events that sucked the joy, love, and happiness out of you? What happens when this happens over and over again and you are afraid to feel the good feelings because of the price you had to pay? Because of the punishment you endured for feeling something that was good and holy and pure?

  You end up afraid to feel the good feelings. That's what happens. And when they show up, they are wrapped in a blanket of dread because good feelings are a punishable offense. And if those who mete out the punishments have done their job well, you stop feeling the good feelings before they even show the tiniest spark. You run from them in terror.

  It's an awful way to live, isn't it? 

  Yes, it was...

  I just don't know how to break free from the deeply ingrained patterns of response whenever I feel the least glimmer of something good and pure and holy. 

  So maybe I need to stop punishing myself for being happy or content or laughing. That's another habit formed at the hands of narcissistic abuse.

  

  It takes time to break old habits but the first step is being aware. Instead of being afraid, I will give thanks to God for the beautiful, often fleeting moments of joy or delight or contentment the moment they happen! Because God Reigns In Every Feeling.

AMEN!