Tuesday, March 07, 2006

The Bible on "Shame"

Hebrews 12: 1-13

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. (vs. 4 -13 discusses spiritual discipline)

Psalms 34 :4,5

I sought the Lord, and he answered me;
he delivered me from all my fears.
Those who look to him are radiant;
their faces are never covered with shame.

(Commentary from NIV Women of Faith Study Bible (p. 889): Sometimes we behave badly and we need to make amends, but often the shame we feel is illegitimate and toxic. We want goodness from someone and he or she lets us down - and we feel ashamed. Someone doesn't like us - and we feel ashamed. In relationship with God, there is never shame. Christ has dealt once and for all with our guilt, and now we can interact with our Father without shame. In fact, when we look to him and depend on him, our lives will reflect the brilliance of his love because all "those who look to him are radiant" Ps 34:5)

Proverbs 13:18

He who ignores discipline comes to poverty and shame, but whoever heeds correction is honored. (See Hebrews 12:4 - 13)

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