It’s Okay Not To Be Okay, But…

“Don’t let the passion of your emotions lead you to sin! Don’t let anger control you or be fuel for revenge.” — Ephesians 4:26 TPT

Let’s be honest: life can be difficult, and sometimes we simply don’t feel okay. We all have seasons when we’re struggling, whether through mental health challenges, hormonal changes, stress, disappointment, exhaustion or circumstances beyond our control.

And that’s okay. We are human, not superhuman!

But here’s something we need to remember: it’s okay not to be okay, but it’s not okay to use how we’re feeling as an excuse to treat people badly.

The restrictions and pressures of the pandemic certainly tested many of us. I found myself becoming irritable and grumpy with my family at times. Apologising for overreactions and frustrations became a regular occurrence. My husband would reassure me, saying, “It’s okay, it’s a tough season.” And whilst I appreciated his grace, I knew I didn’t want to settle for behaviour that wasn’t reflecting Jesus, particularly in front of my son.

Feelings Are Real, But They Don’t Have to Rule

Our emotions are God-given, and we shouldn’t pretend they don’t exist. Even Jesus experienced deep emotion. But we must learn to manage our emotions rather than allowing them to manage us.

Paul writes:

“In your anger do not sin”: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold. Ephesians 4:26–27 NIV

Notice that Scripture doesn’t say we will never feel angry. It tells us what to do with that anger. We mustn’t allow it to become an opportunity for sin.

This is particularly important when raising children. It’s right to show understanding when teenagers are navigating hormones, pressure and emotional challenges. But understanding doesn’t mean removing boundaries. We can be compassionate whilst still teaching respect, kindness and self-control.

Grace Helps Us Grow

The wonderful thing about following Jesus is that we don’t have to remain stuck in unhealthy patterns. The Holy Spirit is working in us, producing His fruit, including patience, kindness, gentleness and self-control [Galatians 5:22–23].

When we get it wrong, let’s be quick to repent. Let’s humble ourselves, apologise sincerely and put things right where possible. Saying sorry isn’t weakness; it’s evidence of a heart that is willing to grow.

James 1:19 encourages us to be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.

So, the next time emotions begin to rise, pause. Invite the Holy Spirit into that moment. Choose your words carefully. And if you get it wrong, don’t defend your behaviour — own it.

You don’t have to be ruled by your emotions. Through the grace of God and the power of the Holy Spirit, you can learn to respond in a way that reflects Jesus.

Believe & Confess Meditation & Declaration

I declare that I am being transformed by the renewing of my mind [Romans 12:2]. I declare that I am slow to anger, quick to listen and careful with my words [James 1:19]. I declare that the Holy Spirit is producing love, patience, kindness and self-control in me [Galatians 5:22–23]. I declare that I will not allow anger to lead me into sin or give the enemy a foothold [Ephesians 4:26–27]. I declare that I can respond with gentleness, even when circumstances are difficult [Proverbs 15:1]. I declare that God is at work in me, giving me both the desire and the power to do what pleases Him [Philippians 2:13].

👉 If this devotional has encouraged or challenged you today, share it with your friends on social media or send it by email. Someone may need the reminder that grace doesn’t mean settling for unhealthy behaviour — it means allowing God to help us grow beyond it.

🌱 To help us continue producing these FREE resources would you consider sowing a seed using the link above or make a purchase from our online shop. Every little helps. Thank you!