Relationship with Self

Course Cut-OutMore Than Your Past - Shedding Shame and Guilt
Written By Austin Cavaliere

If you need help seeing Jesus in the middle of your struggle, or just feel like you are stuck, ready to move into growth and healing, connect with a Christian coach.

Excerpt: Relationship with Self - More Than Your Past Session 5

Course: More Than Your Past - Shedding Shame & Guilt

Speakers: Cathy Loerzel, Ryan Miller

The Driving Force of Shame: Understanding Our Hidden Narratives

We all carry stories of shame. Often, these narratives become the unseen forces that shape our lives, driving us to outrun the deep-seated fear that the negative accusations swirling in our minds might actually be true. We live in fear of exposure, terrified that if our truth were known, we would face rejection, loss, or judgment.

The Grip of Shame: A Barrier to God's Delight

I believe evil thrives in the realm of shame and accusation, using it as a wedge to keep us from the joy and delight of God. Look back to the Garden of Eden. The first consequence of Adam and Eve's disobedience wasn't just guilt, but shame. They hid themselves, acutely aware of their vulnerability and the drastic shift in their connection with God.

God's Pursuit: Meeting Us in Our Shame

When God entered the garden and asked, "Adam, where are you?", it wasn't a question of location, but a beckoning. I believe God is deeply invested in our release from shame, not by dismissing its reality, but by bringing His presence into the very places in our stories that make us cringe – the heartbreaking, hidden pieces we try to keep in the shadows, preventing the comfort and guidance of the living God from reaching us.

Unearthing the Roots: Connecting Shame to Our Stories

A crucial aspect of overcoming shame is understanding it and the accusations it carries. God offers us a way forward, but it's not simply about changing behavior. It's about delving into the "why." Why do we do the things that bring us shame? Do we understand the underlying behaviors, the emotions at play, or the sense of complicity that fuels our embarrassment? Exploring our past experiences and the origins of our shame is a vital step towards healing.

A Daily Practice: Fearstorming and Surrender

One daily exercise I've found incredibly helpful in walking towards freedom and security in my relationship with God is something I call "fearstorming" and surrendering. Each morning, alongside prayer and scripture reading, I take a moment to write down every area of my life that triggers fear and every part of myself that feels vulnerable. By actively identifying these fears and surrendering them to God, we begin to loosen their grip.

Walking in Freedom: Knowing We Are Held

Ultimately, overcoming shame involves recognizing our inherent security in God's love. By casting our burdens upon Him, we yoke ourselves to His strength and walk into our day with a sense of freedom, knowing He holds us.

 

If you like the content, you can continue in a few different ways…

  • 1) See the outline below and check out other sections from the FFP course.

  • 2) Take the full small group course to your church community! The first course your church runs is free! Reach out to us here to learn how.

  • 3) Connect with a Share The Struggle Coach for one-on-one support. Let’s face it, some of us have tried kicking this thing, and we’ve had no luck. It’s time to start looking toward forms of support that can help us see and feel the beautiful life God has in store for us.

 

More Than Your Past

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More Than Your Past 〰️

Session 1

Session 2

Session 3

Session 4

Session 5

Session 6

 

Share The Struggle Courses

Share the Struggle Courses are topical expert led video courses to help you understand life’s greatest struggles and provide you with tools for navigating them. Moreover, STS courses create a space for you to connect with others struggling with similar things, experience belonging, and encounter God’s nearness in a place of wilderness in your life (pain, confusion, healing journey). Want to start a group at your church? Reach out to us here to learn how.

 

What Share The Struggle Believes

Here at Share The Struggle we believe Jesus is present with us in the middle of our pain and mess, and it is in that place that we often experience and encounter Jesus most deeply.

We understand the unique challenges faced by Christians dealing with mental health. Our mission is to bridge the gap between faith and mental health support, providing a platform where individuals can find resources, coaching support and guidance, all tailored to their spiritual life and emotional needs.

We invite you to explore our resources, share your journey, and find the support you need to overcome the struggles you face.

Austin Cavaliere
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