SHAME’S GRIP

Is it possible to fully shed shame, or does it linger, waiting to ensnare us once again? There are seasons when we feel liberated, declaring ourselves healed and free from its burdensome chains. Yet, without warning, we may awaken to find ourselves entangled once more, immobilized by its grip. In these moments, shame whispers insidiously, seeking to convince us of our unworthiness, tethering us to past mistakes.

What is the truth behind this recurring pain? Why do we sometimes feel transported back into unresolved states of depression? Perhaps these moments serve as unconscious reminders of our humanity's fallibility, or maybe they are simply random fires of neural connections. Regardless, we must anchor ourselves in the truth: we are not defined by our past mistakes. While they have shaped us and propelled us forward, they do not hold dominion over us.

Let shame fall to the ground as we stand confidently in the evidence of our growth, fueled by persistent hard work and enveloped in God's amazing grace. Let us recognize our humility and character, refusing to be deceived about our true identity. Instead of second-guessing ourselves, let us embrace the unexpected visits of shame as reminders of our resilience, strength, and the transformative power of God's grace.

As we move forward, let us carry the lessons of the past as fossils, relics of history, while embracing the present with gratitude, confidence, and wisdom.