Day 4: Shame Cannot Define You
Christian author and speaker Christine Caine speaks regularly about the impact that shame can have in our lives. She has noted that she was left nameless on her birth certificate because her mother wasn’t sure she would keep her. This pattern continued, as later in life a social worker wrote that her mother wasn’t progressing and didn’t seem overly attached to her child. Later in life, a professor wrote that Christine should find something she’s good at, but that public speaking wouldn’t be a career in which she could do well. (Christine shared all of these things during the Passion 2018 conference in front of tens of thousands of college students.)
Her story is important, because it shows that if we experience one moment of shame in our lives it doesn’t mean that our entire life story is shameful. Just because we may experience emotional, physical or sexual abuse, it doesn’t define who we are. Only God can fully define who we are. Only God can oversee our whole story. Only God can help us identify the areas of shame in our lives and completely uproot them. And when all shame, envy, judgment, worry, hurt, and fear has been uprooted, we can fully grow into the people God has made us to be.
As you read today, consider this: Who or what is defining your life story?
READING:
Psalm 57:2; Psalm 138:8; Ecclesiastes 12:13-14; Proverbs 19:21; John 15:5
Who or what is defining your life story?
If somebody asked you if you were fulfilling the purpose God has for your life, how would you respond?
Of all of the topics covered throughout this series, which one had the greatest impact on you? Why do you think that is?
In what ways has this series led you to more fully abide in Christ (see John 15:5)?
God is inviting you to live a life completely free from shame. What does this reveal to you about His nature and character?
PRAYER:
Heavenly Father, I confess that I have allowed other things to define my life. There have been moments in my life that have led me to hold onto fear, hurt, worry, judgment, envy or shame that have ultimately led me away from the wonders of who You are. While these memories may never leave me, continue to instill within me that You and You alone will define my life. I will rejoice in You and You alone! I pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.
south ridge blog 