For the large majority of us, if we recognise that we've done something wrong, we're going to feel bad about it. And that's not just in terms of how our actions affect others, but also in terms of how they reflect on us. For instance, our unnecessary angry outburst at a friend doesn't just hurt their feelings, it also gives the impression that we're unable to control our temper.
While guilt and shame will be part and parcel of our repentance process, their tendency to linger after we've acknowledged our sin, apologised and ask for forgiveness can be debilitating.
And the adverse effects of shame aren't limited to our personal wrongdoing. Sometimes we can feel most ashamed about the things that have happened to us. Other people's actions towards us, a background beyond our control or our social status can all cause us to feel distressed, humiliated and distort our understanding of our value. But the acts of God's love, grace and mercy are infinitely more powerful than the deeds of any person and they outweigh their negative consequences. While their stares may make us feel ashamed and unworthy, His watchful eye lets us know we're loved and worth looking out for.
Our shame is magnified the larger the audience to our wrongdoing or the wrongdoing inflicted upon us. Have you ever noticed how much more embarrassed you are when you do something wrong in front of other people? Feelings of humiliation are fuelled by the opinions and judgements made by those who we're surrounded by. That's why it's so important that we pay special attention to God's words about us and His messages to us.
Overcoming shame in whatever context can be a long and arduous journey. But it is made a lot easier when we let the Lord in and look at how He sees us instead of how we see ourselves.
Are you feeling ashamed because of your past? Then check out the slideshow above for some Bible verses to help you see that God wants His people to move on from shame.
