FUNCTION OVER FEELINGS
Choosing Purpose When Emotions Try to Take the Wheel
When emotions rise, purpose gets tested. In this opening episode of SHIFT Season Three titled The Function, Leading and Living in Purpose, Tyila Cooks sits down with her husband, Pastor Marcelto Cooks, for an honest and deeply personal conversation about choosing purpose even when emotions try to run the show.
Together they revisit twenty years of marriage, ministry, blended family dynamics, and seasons that stretched their faith. They talk openly about cancer scares, grief, adoption, financial pressure, and the heavy responsibility of leading while carrying private pain.
The conversation is warm, vulnerable, and rooted in faith. Marcelto shares how quiet time with God helped him manage fear and refocus when his wife faced a cancer diagnosis. Tyila opens up about learning her husband’s communication style and discovering how their differences became strength in times of crisis.
Key Takeaways
Feelings are valid, but they do not get to lead
Emotional maturity develops through communication, grace, and truth
Purpose requires space for prayer, reflection, honesty, and growth
Their story shows that faith and real life can meet in the same room. It is a reminder that you can walk through storms and still function with purpose and clarity.
Favorite Quote
Feelings did not outweigh the purpose God had for my life or for my family
Scripture Reference
Ephesians 2:10
We are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works
Listen to the full episode to hear how these two leaders learned to function over feeling and keep building a purposeful life through every season.
Join the Conversation
Share how you have overcome moments when emotions tried to lead your life. Comment on the blog or connect with us on Substack.
