The day we realize happiness is internal we declare our freedom from the control of the world and all its allure. Through the external world, we will encounter situations that are completely beyond our control. We did nothing to make them happen, but they happened anyway. When we encounter the challenges of the world around us, something is going to change – something in us or something in the circumstance, but something is going to change!

The person who learns to manage his or her emotions will come to understand this vital key and know that, unless they keep their emotions positive and healthy, the circumstance will control their emotions and their life. Proverbs 15:15 says, he who is of a merry heart has a continual feast. Experiencing a life of continual celebration is dependent on what is in the heart. The quality of our life, the thing that makes life abundant, this very “secret key,” is in the joy of the heart.

There are seven primary areas we need to manage in order to begin taking control of our emotions.
1.Make the commitment to embrace a biblical lifestyle.
2. Never violate your conscience.
3. Get plenty of physical rest.
4. Eat healthy foods.
5. Develop healthy friendships.
6. Avoid chaos.
7. Commit to living in peace.

The Bible introduces us to a God who is a shepherd, desiring to lead us out of the valley of the shadow of death. We all walk through the valley. Sometimes it is our own bad decisions that get us there, but other times it is completely beyond our control. Ultimately, it doesn’t matter how we got into the valley. The key is to follow God, our shepherd, who will lead us to the green pastors of abundance, the still waters of peace, and the restoration of our soul. Following God always brings us back the place of peace, provision, and emotional stability! When our soul is restored, we think, feel, and make decisions that support abundant living.