Why Emotions Matter: Recognize Your Body Signals, Grow in Emotional Intelligence, Discover an Embodied Spirituality

For some, emotions are overwhelming and all-important. For others, they are bothersome and irrational. No matter where you fall on the emotional spectrum, one thing is for sure: God designed you as an emotional being. Your emotions have purpose, and they’re worth handling with curiosity, respect, and wisdom.

What might it look like for you to have a healthy relationship with emotions? Could you learn to discern them and use them wisely? Through the unified lens of current research and scriptural teaching, this guide explores:

• how emotions work as signals on your body’s internal dashboard
• why emotions are valuable (even when they are unpleasant)
• what to do when your emotions don’t match the situation
• helpful tools and habits to cultivate emotional health over the long-term
• the ins and outs of shame, fear, anger, sadness, jealousy, and happiness

Whether you’re a skeptical stoic or an impulsive feeler, pursuing a healthy relationship with your emotions is key to living a passionate and abundant life. After all, it’s ultimately about becoming a little more like the person God created you to be.

“The Collins have written a unique and extraordinary book, one that blends the recent findings of psychology with the ancient insights of spirituality, all grounded in a healthy, solid biblical theology. We all ache for a healthy soul, yet this side of Eden, and especially in our modern, frenetic, fast-unraveling world, struggle to live in the love, joy, and peace we know Jesus has for us. This book is like a map, or more, a kind, calm, wise guide for the road to life."
— John Mark Comer, pastor for teaching at Bridgetown Church, and author of The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry

“Here’s your chance to take a big step forward on your journey toward understanding your inner world! This is a marvelously honest, insightful, and practical book about the surprising gift our emotions are when we understand what they signal. Read it!”
— Ian Morgan Cron, author of The Road Back to You

"I don't remember the last time I read such a consequential book. Jon and Tristen have brilliantly woven theology, psychology, wit, humor, and grace to give us such a desperately needed resource! I immediately thought of ten people I will be buying this book for."
— Jefferson Bethke, NYT best selling author of Jesus > Religion

“At the ripe old age of thirty-seven, I keep imagining myself standing outside a high school with a case of this book to hand to every student. If seventeen-year-old Joy had read this book, she would have headed into adulthood with permission to take stock of the “why” behind her emotions (there were a few) and the “what” God and science has to say about them. This is a psychology-theology book that is both profound and accessible for any age or stage. ”
— Joy Eggerichs Reed, Founder of Punchline Speakers

Most of us have had moments when our own reactions, thoughts, and feelings surprise or perplex us, and we wonder, "Why did I just say or do that?" In this wonderfully helpful book, the Collins have given us a practical and profound education in what emotions are, and how they can guide us into greater self-awareness. It's an invitation to think psychologically and theologically about the human person, so you can offer a healthier and more integrated version of yourself to the people around you.
— Tim Mackie, cofounder of The Bible Project

“‘Sometimes you choose the book. Other times, the book chooses you.’ This book chose me. I needed it.