How good are you at following rules?
What is your response when you mess up?
1. Consider this idea: "Too many of us accept God's forgiveness, but we keep our shame." Why do you feel it is so hard for us to let go of our shame?
2. Angela talked about the story of David's guilt and shame from
2 Samuel 11. Go back through the story and ponder what way(s) you connect with David's guilt and shame from that story.
3. How do we overcome shame when it takes root in our hearts?
4. Read
Psalm 51. As you read, consider how God wants our hearts to be right with him and wants us to accept the grace He gives us.
5. Has there been an area of shame in your life where you have accepted—FULLY accepted—God's grace?
If you attended the Abundant conference, you heard from Curt Thompson, a noted psychiatrist, author, and speaker. Consider looking into his book "The Soul of Shame" this week.
The topic of guilt and shame is a heavy topic. If you need to speak with a pastor, email pastors@thecrossing.church. Or if you haven't ever spoken with a counselor, there is a list of vetted counselors in the area:
https://thecrossing.church/counselorsConsider what it is that you need to leave at the foot of the cross.
Lord, when guilt and shame take hold, help us to fall into Your everlasting arms and rest in Your abundant grace. When the world screams that our mistakes should be our downfall, gently whisper Your love over us. Tune our hearts and minds to not hide from You in fear, but to instead surrender our guilt and shame at the foot of the cross as You call us into Your light and love. So be it and Amen.