Emotions are complex.

God is complex.

Let’s talk about it.

emotions-and-the-gospel-heidi-goehmann

 

Embracing "positive" emotions seems easy to do. Things like joy, gratefulness, and excitement are all celebrated as positive markers of faithfulness in society. But when sadness, pain, anger, or guilt creep up, those are much harder to embrace.

How can you begin to understand your own emotions if half of them are ones you’d much rather ignore?

Emotions and the Gospel reminds all believers that your emotions are not something to be shamed. Rather, they are beautiful gifts from God that connect you with your Creator. Learn more about how the entire range of your emotions is to be celebrated with biblical examples and insight from author and licensed mental health care provider Heidi Goehmann. Download a sample.

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Three Points to Understanding Emotions

1

Consider Your Beliefs

2

Uncover the Misconceptions

3

Find Healthy Ways to Process

“It’s a different way of looking at emotions when we stop seeing them as inconveniences or problems to solve. It may seem dangerous to let them have more space even in a discussion, let alone in the practices of our daily lives. Yet, God is faithful, and grace through Jesus Christ is what saves us, not doing emotions ‘correctly.’”  —From the Introduction

A Few Specific Emotions Covered

  • Delight
  • Distress
  • Weariness
  • Indignation
  • Contempt
  • Perplexity
  • Felt Compassion
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Features discussion questions and a list of emotions found in Scripture.

“Heidi Goehmann refreshingly validates human emotions as a good gift of God, neither to be repressed nor faked, but to be received gratefully as necessary tools for authentic interactions in a fallen world.” —Rev. Dr. Nathan Jastram, professor of theology, Concordia University Wisconsin

“I love this book! Heidi builds masterful bridges between the current research on emotion and the beauty of Scripture.”—Megan Barone, director of campus discipleship and outreach, Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Kearney, Nebraska

“Emotions and the Gospel is a must read for anyone involved in ministry. I can’t wait to read it again.” —William “Shurphyl” Jackson, retreats program manager, Camp Luther

“The next generation of Christians is crying out for authenticity and connectedness. We can’t have either without emotions. Heidi not only explores our God-given emotions, but also qualifies them as gifts, even the ones we don’t like to talk about in church.” —Josh and Sarah McKinley, area directors, youth ministry and outreach, Young Life

“I thank Heidi for recognizing that we are works in progress, designed by God, and covered by His grace. As we struggle with balance, she recognizes that the struggle is real—and okay.”—Debbie Larson, president, Lutheran Women’s Missionary League, 2019–23

Meet the Author

Heidi Goehmann is a licensed social worker and mental health care provider, theologian, writer, and advocate. She received her bachelor’s degree in theology and psychology from Concordia University Chicago and her master’s degree in social work from the University of Toledo, with an emphasis on children, families, and social justice. Heidi can always be found at heidigoehmann.com, which provides resources and advocacy for mental health, genuine relationship, and hope for each day. She lives in Michigan with her husband, four kids, and 1.5 dogs on the shores of Lake Michigan.

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