If we were to be bluntly honest with ourselves, it is the same we feel from the rejection of failure that actually scares us.
My soul also is greatly troubled. But you, O Lord—how long? Psalm 6:3 (ESV)
Shame is a part of life. We've all felt it stings before and would probably do anything to never ever feel it again. In fact, we do.
We will lie, cheat, steal, manipulate, twist, mask, overwork, sabotage, disappear, and/or give up rather than feeling ashamed. It is a fact of life. If you can help people feel secure in making mistakes, letting them know that you will not reject them if they do - that will go along way to healthier relationships and teams.
But think about this.
Jesus will never reject you. Even when you have epically failed, He still loves you and believes in You. There is nothing you can do to derail His plan for your life. Get this! He knew you were going to drop the ball and yet He still called you.
Now I have felt shame before. The shame of my failures as well as the shame of my inexperience and/or passionate mistakes. I've burned relationships, mostly by accident. I've ruined friendships, never on purpose. I've caused others to be very frustrated with me, but never out of a design. I have felt the shame of sin but here's the deal. I have felt the victory of repentance.
You see, there's the key. Even in your failure know that Jesus still loves you and cares deeply about you. He will never look down from heaven and say, "What am I going to do with them." as He shakes His head in disbelief. He will always look at you with love and grace.
If Jesus can forgive you, then you can too.
PRAY: Dear Jesus, I feel shame, but I want to feel your mercy in my heart today. AMEN
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