Overcoming Shame For Past Behaviour

Life with God in recovery includes recognizing where shame is active in us and inviting God to heal the wounds that have caused us embarrassment and humiliation.  We can recognize shame when we constantly feel unworthy, insecure, or inferior. The thought that isolation and aloneness would  be easier to deal with than living in community is another telltale sign of shame. 

The first step in rooting out shame is to receive God’s forgiveness for any ways we have sinned against God and others.  When we put our trust in what Jesus did for us on the cross, not only is our guilt removed, but God also promises to cleanse our consciences from the shame.  When the evil one says our sins are unforgiveable we must counter this lie with the fact that Jesus is the perfect sacrifice for ALL our sins. 

Memories of past behaviour can easily trigger shame.  When we accept forgiveness of our sins from Jesus our past is blotted out and we become beloved sons and daughters of God with new hope and a future.  We must focus our thoughts on this truth, intentionally affirming it as often as necessary.  We must also behave in accordance with this truth rather than reacting to our feelings.  When we resist the evil one’s accusations in this way, shame will go and peace and stability will come.

Prayer:  Heavenly Father, Thank You that Jesus died on the cross for me so I could be forgiven, cleansed, healed and made whole.  I acknowledge that only You can restore me to new life and today I choose to put my trust in You to do that.  Amen

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