My article on “The Destructive Power of Shame” speaks of something important for each of us to be on guard against. The promise of God is received by the righteousness that faith produces. If you are under the control of condemnation, your righteousness or standing is not steady. If you can’t stand, you can’t receive.
I want to encourage you to go back to the basics. Faith still works. The blood still cleanses guilt. The Word still changes our mind. The promise is still in place. Even if you think you know about the power of your tongue, examine the words that you speak and the ones that you listen to.
Don’t return to feelings as the confirmation of your right standing with God. Don’t look for outward signs for God’s approval. When did believers start saying, “If it doesn’t work out easily, it must not be God’s will.” Things didn’t look easy for Abraham. Things didn’t fall into place for Moses. There are times that we will follow God and nothing looks like its working. Those times require a firm footing. To overcome adversity, you have to know that God hears you and His answer is already on the way.
Shame destroys that kind of confidence. I want you to be on the hunt! If you encounter shame of any kind, take that thought captive. Take it before God in prayer and cross-examine it with the Word of God. The Word always wins. Declare, “ I have repented for that mistake” or “I am not guilty of that. It was out of my control.” Then, wash your mind and spirit with the blood of Jesus. Here are some scriptures to help you.
Romans 8:1 There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh but after the Spirit.
Psalm 25:2a O my God, I trust in thee: let me not be ashamed.
Isaiah 54:4a Fear not; for you shall not be ashamed; neither be confounded; for you shall not be put to shame.
