You know what our world is missing? Shame.
Just look around. The world is a free-for-all for any kind of lifestyle, habit or behavior. We're living in a time where nothing is off limits. No choice or decision is allowed to be judged or looked down upon.
We're living in a society that says, "If it feels good, do it" and our world is struggling with some simple truths. In every human being, lives a conscience and the job of that feeling/voice is to steer us away from what is clearly wrong. Except it's becoming shameful to shame someone into right behavior.
Maybe you've noticed this too…
No longer is it acceptable to tell someone else what they are doing or saying is inappropriate. If you dare make that mistake be prepared for lashback from a multitude of directions. It is now looked down upon to look down upon poor decisions or behavior. Which is sad because God is pretty clear when it comes to sin.
I remember feeling shame for my mistakes. Do you? That shame propelled me to make better decisions and to turn from what was out of alignment with God. I'm grateful for that little tool in my life. I can't help but think if more people felt shame….and repented to a Holy God, that our world would be a better place to live.
Not just a better world, but a better life — one lived in peace and freedom that can only come from Christ.
Perhaps we've gone a little overboard with protecting ourselves from feeling shame. While it's not a place to live and dwell (God offers forgiveness), I know feeling embarrassed or ashamed can be useful in refining you & me into our best selves.
Ever felt ashamed? Did it spur you to do better or change in some way?
I hope so. Shame on you, if it didn't!