There are moments in life when the enemy tries to cloud our view with all the moments in our lives of which we should be ashamed. Whether these things happened today or 20 years ago, he doesn’t care. He’ll use anything to shame us into surrendering our real identity.
Christ.
When we were each saved, we each found a new identity in Christ.
Yet to all who received Him, to those who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God- children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband’s will, but born of God. John 1:12-13
I am a child of God. If you are saved, then so are you. This ends it all. Our identity is forever and eternally linked to the family of God. He is our Father. Jesus is our Brother. Holy Spirit is our constant guide and companion. It doesn’t get any better than this.
When we not only know, but fully understand that we are true children of God, then that alone should wipe away any semblance of shame. But for most of us, it’s a longer struggle than that.
Why?
Because shame paralyzes. Shame causes us to stop believing in our authority. Shame renders us in a constant state of defense instead of taking authority and being on offense. Pushing forward. Moving the line in God’s direction.
We have got to break the shackles of shame. But how?
Being steeped in the word and training our minds to take every thought captive. This is our responsibility. We must decide to actively do this.
Have a shameful thought? Take hold of that thought and say to God… “God, if this thought is from the enemy, take it away. If it’s from You then show me what I need to know about it.”
This is a sure-fire way to deal with it yourself and grow in your ability to stand on what is true.
Today I encourage you to do just that. Take every thought captive. The good, the bad, the seemingly indifferent. Present them to God and ask Him what He says about it. This exercise will change your life.
I will extol the Lord at all times; His praise will always be on my lips. My soul will boast in the Lord; let the afflicted hear and rejoice. Glorify the Lord with me; let us exalt His name together. 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. Psalm 34:1-5
365 Days in the Presence 