So much 'chatter' in this season about politics. So interesting that this topic creates so many opportunities to look at values and words and behaviors. These 'cross over' so well ? into what we say we live and believe as Christ followers.
Not always, but often, when clients need some helps there is a sense of shame attached. It shows in their words and attitudes. When we are face to face it shows in their posture and their eyes. Living with a sense of shame can become debilitating. Too often, people hear these curse words; "Shame on you." The definition of shame is; 'a painful feeling of humiliation or distress caused by the consciousness of wrong of foolish behavior." and also; "to mortify or embarrass or chasten or 'cut down to size'" So very few people actually grown and change from actions of being shamed.
Shame is from the enemy. As believers, we have the answer to be able to free people from this sense of shame. We are each in need of a Savior and for us to speak shame onto another is basically saying that the life, death and resurrection of Jesus isn't enough.
Speaking HOPE and TRUTH and HEALING are so much more freeing than trying to shame and condemn a person's words or actions. I have yet to see anyone truly changed by shame.
On the other hand, when people understand that repentance is a gift and they decide to choose to turn towards Christ, their freedom increases, their faces begin to radiate joy and peace....and HOPE is restored.
Pride speaks shame. A teachable Spirit asks questions for deeper understanding. Pride rarely listens. A person who is teachable makes it a point to listen well.
As we hear political 'chatter' and people attempting to shame the 'other' and people not listening well, and people with strong opinions (pride?) let's ask ourselves how we are walking in our Spiritual journey...do these poor characteristics 'cross over' into who we say we are in Christ?
Praying we are filled up with the Fruit of the Holy Spirit, freely giving to others in abundance what we ourselves have been gifted with.