“Lord, I seek refuge in You; let me never be disgraced. Save me by Your righteousness.”
Psalms 31:1 HCSB
“Now the Scripture says, Everyone who believes on Him will not be put to shame.”
Romans 10:11 HCSB
We all feel shame at times. Maybe we’ve hurt someone’s feelings, we’ve tripped in public, or sang the wrong “solo” note during a choir song. We may have burned a meal or forgotten a doctor’s appointment. We’ve forgotten an important item and had to return home to retrieve it.
We may ruminate on these experiences, reliving them over and over in our minds. We may focus negatively on sadness or stupidity, overwhelmed with dread and a desire to hide.
But we all make mistakes. It’s part of being human. No one expects us to be perfect.
The Lord is with us. He loves us and will not reject us. He will help us through the situation and our emotions.
Take time to make amends for offending others. Pay the fees for a missed appointment. Forgive yourself and try again.
Then take some time to rest and de-stress:
Listen to calming music.
Sip a warm cup of tea.
Watch a movie that makes you laugh.
Treat yourself to a manicure.
Or buy yourself a small gift.
Write the note you would share with a friend if she was going through a similar situation. Your kind consideration could be just what she needs. You deserve the same treatment.
Then, try again. They say that when you fall off a horse, it’s best to get back in the saddle. Take a deep breath and hop on!
PRAYER: Dear Lord, we long to be the best versions of ourselves. It is difficult for us to work through our shame. We need You always and especially in these times. Thank You for Your love and willingness to accept us and our mistakes. In Christ’s name, Amen.
Journal: When have you felt shame? Make a list of ways you can help yourself or another to move beyond.