Trying to master your emotions in times like these can sometimes feel like riding a bucking bronco or finding your balance on a floating log. Exhausting.

At least that’s how I felt for weeks.

Not so much anymore.

After weeks of trying to pinpoint exactly how I felt so I could name it, deal with it, and quit the up and down and back and forth, I finally realized I didn’t have to.

We humans are capable of feeling more than one thing at a time with equal intensity.

For example, you can cry genuine tears with those who are going through something painful and bubble over with those who have something to celebrate all at the same time without dismissing or disrespecting either set of circumstances.

In fact, the Bible tells us to do so.

“Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn” (Rom. 12:15).

Thanks to the Master craftsman, we are fearfully and wonderfully made human beings capable of processing and experiencing all kinds of things at once. The occurrence of complex emotion isn’t an indicator that something is wrong with you.

Maybe you’re just a Ferrari that finally got taken out on the highway.

As long as the Creator is steering things—and we know He is—there’s no reason to fear oncoming traffic or the road ahead.  He knows what we can handle and, more importantly, what He can handle.

It’s normal and okay to feel…

Sadness and happiness.

Exhaustion and joy.

Frustration and resolve.

Confusion and focus.

Trepidation and security.

Vulnerability and peace.

Awareness and bravery.

Caution and confidence.

Grief and hope.

At least that’s what the Psalms suggest.  No need to overanalyze.  No need to fix.

If your eyes are focused on God, your heart is set on glorifying Him, your mind is mulling over the truth of His Word, your ears are perked to the sound of His voice, and your body is ready and willing to spring into action when He gives the word, then just keep doing what you’re doing.

Stay the course.

Here’s what we know: If something inside gets really out of whack, it will start making a sound and/or affect performance and function, right?  Well, if and when that happens, you can take whatever action is required with the help of One Who made you at His leading, but until it does, there’s no reason to make a big deal out of every little mood swing or pile-up you experience.

Truth?  Pleasant or unpleasant, the way you’re feeling right now will pass because more life is on the horizon and approaching at a steady clip.

God?  He will stay the same (James 1:17).  Hold tight to Him no matter what comes your way.