GUILT AND SHAME

 

The best way to distinguish between guilt & shame is this -- guilt says “Woops, I did something wrong, I did something bad.” Shame says “I am bad, there is something wrong with me.” Small differences in language, hugely different meanings. Guilt is an uncomfortable feeling when something we’ve done, or not done, doesn’t measure up to our values.

Both of these emotions can steal our joy, stop the freedom in our lives, makes us want to stay away from others, even make us physically sick. 

It's helpful to know, EVERYONE suffers with both feelings at times.  It's helpful to believe Jesus died for both of these feelings that will stop us from enjoying the fullness of His love for us.  

1 John 1:9 ESV / 

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness 

 ( I love this verse and it's the one I fall back on when I am struggling with guilt over a wrong I have done.  That wrong could be gossiping, telling a lie, auguring with my husband or anyone,  etc. ) Guilt is something God will use to get our hearts right when we sin.  

1 Peter 5:8 

Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. 

(Shame is a tool of the devil and he will keep our sin ever before us so we live defeated, not able to enjoy life. 

It's a progression from guilt to shame, but it does not have to be.  If you are stuck, seek help from the Word, talk to someone who can help you get unstuck.  God has provided for us to live abundant life by sending His Son to die for our sin and shame.  

Happy Valentine Day