OVERCOMING SHAME RESULTING FROM THE WRONGS OF OTHERS

We are not defective and dirty because someone else sinned against us while under the power of the evil one.  Satan, however, endeavours to keep us in bondage to the abusive act we experienced, and the feelings of hopelessness associated with it.  God’s plan for our restoration is based on the truth of who He says we are. 

God says we are precious in His sight.  Through Jesus, God has provided a way for us to live a blessed and joy filled life.  The power of another’s abuse is not stronger than the power of God’s love. 

Let us go right into the presence of God with sincere hearts fully trusting him.  For our guilty consciences have been sprinkled with Christ’s blood to make us clean, and our bodies have been washed with pure water.   God has said: My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.  So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me!  (Hebrews 10:22, 2 Corinthians 12:9 NLT)

God calls us to overcome shame by living in community with Him and with others.  When we want to run away because we feel threatened, our best choice is to stay.  Shame may block us from talking with a trustworthy individual about the things in our past but the only way to find real freedom is to get it all out.  Wise counsellors will help us understand who is responsible for what took place in our past and give us advice on how to speak the truth to ourselves. 

Believing and speaking the truth helps us live in freedom.  It is not easy to let go of powerful lies that have hindered our well-being in the past, but God will help us and give us the power to do so. 

Prayer:  Heavenly Father, I give thanks that You created me for a life of loving relationship with You and with others.  When I feel like running or isolating because of the shame I feel, please strengthen me to remain in community with You and with other healthy people with whom I can be honest about my abusive past.  Amen