06 | Shame
The Psalms invite us into raw, passionate, and emotive life with God. The psalmists regularly expose the truth of their feelings before God, even in ways that may seem taboo in our lives. Many of us have believed that feelings are bad and can not be trusted. We've believed that feelings are poor guides, untrustworthy, and will ultimately lead us astray. The truth is, God gave us our emotions. Each of our emotions are helpful tools, leading us to whole-hearted living. Get this - our feelings can be a pathway to Jesus. Emotions expose our neediness. Our neediness provides an opportunity for us to be vulnerable. Genuine prayer allows us to bring our full selves to Jesus. Deep faith and full life include our feelings. We can trust that Jesus can handle, and even use our emotions.
This week we look at Shame.
Questions for Discussion
Read Psalm 31. What stands out to you in David’s song?
What triggers shame for you? What times, places, or settings do you feel shame come on strong and loud
When you feel shame, where do you feel it in your body? (ex: A rush of blood to the head, elevated heart rate, or constriction in your chest or your throat)
What is your shame trying to say to you? What does it speak and name to your soul? Does it sound like rejection, accusation, judgment, or something else?
August 14, 2022 - Steve Hart