Stronger in the Difficult Placesනියැදිය

Day 5

LIVING BEYOND SHAME

John the Baptist preached repentance, which means to turn around and go the other way (Matthew 3:2). But he also told his followers, “Produce fruit in keeping with repentance” (Luke 3:8). He gave the people who came to him specific ways in which they needed to change.

Jesus came with the same message of repentance (Matthew 4:17). When he delivered it to people who recognized their shame and felt remorse over their wrongdoing, he was gentle. For example, when a woman was caught in the act of adultery and was dragged out into public to be humiliated in front of men, he said to her, “Neither do I condemn you. Go now and leave your life of sin” (John 8:11 NIV).

Repent. Turn. Change.

When you’ve forgiven yourself and released complex shame, you are no longer a co-signer for low self-esteem, unhealthy thought processes, or negative self-talk. You can show up bravely whether you are affirmed or not, because the compassion you’ve given yourself exists in every space. It doesn’t mean that you have an invisible shield. It means that because you love yourself, you will no longer tolerate those who have no empathy, compassion, or appropriate care for you. It simply means that you won’t seek out other people’s acceptance to validate yourself.

This looks like setting boundaries, being your own caregiver, valuing your needs, re-evaluating how you work, ending an unhealthy relationship, or saying no to what doesn’t serve you or your purpose. In time this can lead to living the life of your dreams.

I like what God says in Zephaniah 3:19: "I will give them praise and honor in every land where they have suffered shame" (NIV).

Shame doesn’t have to make residence in your mind, body, or soul. You can create a practice of releasing it. You have the knowledge and the tools to reckon with yourself in a healthy way. You’ve got this!

Today, ask yourself: How have I disconnected from God and others because of my shame? How can I connect in a healthy way instead? How can I practice self-acceptance?

We hope you are encouraged by this reading plan. To learn more about STRONGER IN THE DIFFICULT PLACES by Dr. Zoe Shaw, click here.