Overcoming Shame

Don’t be afraid; there is no more disgrace for you.

Isaiah 54:4

WE OFTEN HEAR THE WORDS guilt and shame used interchangeably, but there is a huge difference between them. Guilt is what we feel when we’ve made a mistake; shame is the core belief that we are a mistake. True guilt plays a vital role in healthy repentance because it allows us to see exactly how we have fallen short and missed the mark. Shame, on the other hand, traps us in a perpetual cycle of fear and self-loathing that leads us to one conclusion: God is disappointed with us.

This experience causes us to be afraid and to want to cover up. We strive to look good on the outside and may go to great lengths not to allow others the opportunity to get to know us.

But the more we hide our shame, the more we hinder the deep healing that God wants to bring about. Our shame diminishes as we reveal our true selves to those who love us and accept us rather than disgrace us. This is not easy, because we don’t expect to be loved or accepted. What a wonderful moment of grace when God says, “Do not be afraid, for you will not be put to shame” (Isaiah 54:4, HCSB). We are free to open our hearts to God and find love and acceptance and not shame. The thing is, He knows absolutely everything about us and loves us anyway. We have to take His word on this, not our own thinking or life experience. What shame have you been covering up that needs to be uncovered this week?

BOTTOM LINE

It is God’s desire to heal our deep wounds of shame. Risk opening up and allowing Him into those painful places.

Moment of Strength: Joshua 1:9