The Problem with Guilt & Shame May 17, 2015
The Problem of Guilt and Shame
Guilt and shame are two of the most toxic things in our culture today. While they are prominent in the church, they are not of God. They are inconsistent with the character and nature of Jesus. Shame may be the most dangerous thing in our culture today. It destroys individuals, relationships and communities. Shame is manipulative and self-perpetuating. The cycle of guilt and shame can be difficult to break. Shame is not Biblical, healthy or effective.
| Truth | Lie | |
| Character |
Triune God
|
Satan |
| Feeling | Remorse (recognize sin) |
Guilt (sin defines you)
|
| Response | Repentance (change) |
Shame (self-hatred)
|
| Motivator | Trust |
Fear
|
| Emotional Result | Forgiveness (wholeness) |
Pain (perpetual)
|
| Disciple
|
Peter | Judas |
| Biblical Values & Gospel Truth
|
Love, grace and mercy |
None
|
| Spiritual Result |
Spirit Filled Life (fruit)
|
Legalism or Abused Freedom |
Which path do you choose in the midst of sin/failure? Which direction do you run when you fail God, those you love or yourself? We do have a choice when we fail, sin or fall short. We can choose the path of truth, love and grace or the path of destruction. Run from shame and refuse to shame others.
“The more personal grace becomes for us, the less personal everything else will feel. Choose the path of grace.”
©2015 Rev. Dr. Marcus J Carlson
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