Thursday, May 4, 2023
God’s design for us was to be naked and without shame. However, Eve became convinced that she couldn’t trust God and took fruit from the Tree of Life. She gave some fruit to Adam, too. Their eyes were opened and shame and fear were introduced. Then God came with grace and pursued Adam, calling out to him.
Genesis 3:10
He replied, “I heard you walking in the garden, so I hid. I was afraid because I was naked.”
Feeling vulnerable and answering out of fear, Adam replied to God blaming “the woman you gave me” (Genesis 3:12). Eve in turn blamed the serpent. When we feel exposed, we hide, we feel shame, and we blame.
Operating out of honesty and not hypocrisy is vital as a Christian on a mission to introduce people to Jesus and the life-changing adventure he offers. I tell people I am an imperfect person worshiping a perfect God. We all have things we’d rather not admit to, but holding onto that baggage doesn’t lead to freedom.
John 3:20-21
20 “All who do evil hate the light and refuse to go near it for fear their sins will be exposed. 21 But those who do what is right come to the light so others can see that they are doing what God wants.”
I forget I was once afraid to come into the light. I knew my life would have to change, and I was afraid I wasn’t capable. Someone said, “You only have to change one thing—everything!” That was terrifying! Being comfortable in the mire and muck was easier than giving it all up for the unknown. Talk about a leap of faith! I’m so glad I did. Trusting in God’s grace and his truth has been such a freeing journey, but you have to give it away to keep it.
Judgment is not mine to pass. Giving someone the courage to step into the light by authentically sharing how I came into a relationship with Jesus is how I give back. Someone shared their story with me, who shared their story with them. We’ve all done things that make us want to hide in shame. Sometimes it’s easier to play the blame game, but there is nothing more freeing than bringing that stuff into the light.
Shame and guilt weren’t meant for us to carry. Lay it down! The foot of the cross is where it belongs.
Questions:
Have you ever shared the story of how you came into a relationship with Jesus? Do you ever find that you’re masking your Christianity, or the opposite, wearing a mask in order to impress others with your Christianity?
Next Steps:
Join a Freedom Group or Celebrate Recovery. Text “Groups” to 419-419-0707 for more info.
Participate in the text campaign for additional freedom content via our podcast. Text “Freedom” to 419-419-0707 to sign up.
Prayer:
Lord, I can’t thank you enough for all that you have done. You are sovereign, powerful, all knowing, and mighty, yet you care for me. Thank you for giving me the courage, strength, and power to do what I cannot do on my own. Help me to live each day looking for opportunities to share the majesty of who you are and what you have done for all of humanity. May my life be a beacon calling out to those who are in darkness striving to find their way to you. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Series Theme Verse:
Philippians 2:13
For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him.