Catechism

Scripture

Key Concepts

• Emotions help us act or not act based on what we are experiencing. They also help us identify if something is good or evil. As human beings, we are fundamentally drawn toward what is good; we are drawn toward the greatest good — love. That is why we like it when we are happy and do not like it when we are sad or fearful. (CCC 1763-1765)
• Emotional changes are a result of various factors. We react to different situations based on how things make us feel.
• All of our actions, despite our emotions, should be ordered toward doing what is right and good. Through our reason and will, and by not allowing ourselves to be ruled by our emotions, we can use self-control to choose what is best for ourselves and those around us.