"Everyone who believes in him will not be put to shame.’” Romans 10:11
Jesus Christ went to his death on the cross, “despising the shame,” enduring its agony in the full blazing weight of the wrath of God that you might be forgiven and covered and secured and free. Hebrews 12:2
“He disarmed the rulers and authorities and put them to shame by triumphing over them in him.” Colossians 2:15
Righteousness Removes Shame
Shame is not just found with the woman at the well or the one caught in adultery; it hides in many ways.
We mainly find it in the church by those who try to put on a good front and look good for others.
Been there, done that!
It is the fear of being discovered as imperfect and that no one would accept us if they knew who I was.
The call to all is freedom from shame.
Shame immobilizes us.
It whispers, "What if they knew who you really are?"
God says, "You are my Beloved, and I have made you white as snow."
Let's not just frame it for those living a life of shame but a call to the whole community to live a life of vulnerability for the sake of each other.
Remember, we are dealing with shame, so calling people out for that would never come forward for help because of the....shame!
It must be a call to freedom for all and a call to the church to be the place where we remind others that only in Christ are we without shame.
He has clothed us with His righteousness!
“I will save the lame, gather the outcast, and change their shame into praise.” Zephaniah 3:19
What are some ways that you hide from others?
When you hear shame, what first comes to mind, behavior or being?
Lord, show us how we are made perfect and complete in You. Reveal the fullness of our clothing of righteousness in You. Amen