“Now is my soul troubled. And what shall I say? ‘Father, save me from this hour’? But for this purpose I have come to this hour. Father, glorify your name.” — John 12:27-28

There are two important things happening in this text that I believe are crucial for men to understand. First, Jesus was not some emotionless or stoic man. Throughout the Gospel, we have seen his divinity and his humanity. These verses capture his human side as he experiences deep distress that troubles him. All men experience this. Jesus recognizes this internal stirring and engages in self-talk, just as we all do. Yet he openly expresses his emotions because he is unashamed of the distress he feels.

We need to pay attention to Jesus here because emotions are an inherent part of our masculine experience. In fact, Jesus's emotions are evident throughout the Gospel. We see his passion in the Temple (John 2:17), weariness at the well (John 4:7), tears at death (John 11:35), distress with Judas (John 13:21), and compassion for his mother (John 19:26). So if Jesus can acknowledge his emotions, so can we.

Secondly, notice that he doesn't let his human emotions deter his divine purpose. Even though he engages in an internal debate, he remains resolute in his divine mission. Jesus does this to teach us how to address our own emotions. He shows us how to acknowledge emotions without not letting them dictate our actions. He knows their significance in him and then directs them towards actions that bring honor and glory to God. As should we.

So fellas, acknowledge your emotions and don't bury them. They're a vital part of God's design of you. But as you acknowledge them, don't react too quickly to them or let them divert you from the divine mission and purpose that God has for your life. Sometimes, as Jesus did here, you will need to preach back to them and direct your emotions and actions toward a more Godly end. So allow yourself to experience them and preach to them the Gospel truth.

ASK THIS:

1. How do you typically approach and express your emotions as a man? Are there any emotions you tend to suppress or struggle to acknowledge? Reflect on how Jesus's example encourages you to embrace and express your emotions authentically, without shame or inhibition.
2. Think about a recent situation where your emotions influenced your actions. Did you allow your emotions to dictate your behavior, or were you able to recognize their significance and steer them toward a more godly response? How can you apply the lesson from Jesus's example to better navigate your emotions and align them with God's purpose in your life?

DO THIS: Acknowledge one emotion and preach to it the Gospel truth.

PRAY THIS: God, give me the strength to embrace my emotions with courage and authenticity, and guide me in directing them towards actions that honor and glorify Your name. Amen.

PLAY THIS: Truth I'm Standing On.