Spiritual guidance powered by AI and grounded in Scripture
Your Question:
What's the best way to deal with the guilt and shame?
Answer:
As a pastor, I've seen many individuals struggle with feelings of guilt and shame. In a guilt culture, the focus is on paying a penalty and justifying oneself, whereas in a shame culture, the emphasis is on ridicule, exclusion, and reproach. However, I believe that Christ's atonement addresses both guilt and shame. When I reflect on my own life, I realize that guilt is a natural response to wrongdoing, and it's essential to acknowledge and confess our sins to others. In my experience, dealing with guilt and shame requires a willingness to open up communication and receive love. As I mentioned earlier, my wife, Susan, handled a situation with our children by encouraging them to return the gum and apologize, rather than focusing on shame. This approach helps to create a safe environment where individuals can confront their mistakes and work towards healing. When someone accuses me of something, I try to listen carefully and consider the accusation, confessing any truth that I see, even if it's just a kernel. As a Christian, I believe that real forgiveness is the only remedy for authentic guilt. I encourage individuals to focus on concrete actions that promote repentance, such as confessing freely and safely, seeking accountability, and taking preventative measures to avoid similar mistakes in the future. By doing so, we can break free from the cycle of guilt and shame and live more virtuous lives, consistent with God's will.
Sources:
introduction biblical ethics
robertson mcquilkin
raising kids to follow christ
lee ann mancini
addictions a banquet in the grave
edward t welch
depression
edward welch
acts
r c sproul
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