“Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us.” Ephesians 3:20 (KJV)
Writings from the Global Office: Messages from Our Hearts Empowering Lives with Purpose COURAGE TO OVERCOME SHAME Are you plagued with shame’s message of “I am bad” or “Did I do something wrong?” Shame identifies that we are unacceptable, dirty, and disgraced. Unfortunately, sin leaves guilt and shame in its wake, even after forgiveness has been sought and granted. Sadly, shame is found in victims of abuse, which is grieving to our hearts. We can feel shame because we are sinned against. Shameful or sinful acts against a person can leave them vulnerable to shame. Verbal abuse, physical abuse, neglect, sexual abuse, and trauma can all result in leaving a person with a feeling of shame. We can look at the Biblical example of Tamar, who was raped by her brother, Anon. “And she laid her hand on her head and went away, crying aloud as she went.” (2 Samuel 13:19 ESV) Shame can also arise from past sin, even though it is no longer a part of you. When this shame is experienced, you must remember your sin is nailed to the cross, and it no longer has power over you. It is one thing to believe your sin has been removed from you, but another to KNOW that there is a divine love that can never be removed from you, no matter what you have done. Jesus says, “Take heart, son; your sins are forgiven.” (Matthew 9:2 NIV) Shame hinders us in many ways. It can hinder you and prevent you from finding your purpose. How often this can happen to others as well, robbing our world of such amazing men and women of God. It can hinder you from creativity. Shame brings insecurity that can hold you back from fulfilling things that God has equipped you to do for Him. Shame hinders relationships from thriving because there are tendencies to distance yourself to protect yourself from the other person in your relationship due to past fears. In many ways, you may feel ongoing hurt in areas you have no control over anymore, affecting the other person. 12
