You Are Not Behind: How to Start Building a Life You Love TodaySample

Day 6: Shake Off Your Shame

Not long ago, my life looked anything but godly; I spent my college years like a walking stereotype: the Goody Two-shoes Christian girl who goes to college, joins a sorority, and turns into a party girl.

While that’s a condensed version of the story, the point is that I have quite a few things in my past that I’m not proud of. I made choices that caused me and others a lot of pain and heartbreak, and I made mistakes I sometimes wish I could undo. For years, I lived in shame.

When something bad happens, or when I’m feeling behind compared to those who seem to be moving right along in life, I usually find myself wondering: Is this my punishment? Am I not where I want to be in life because of my past? Is this my fault?

Ephesians 2:8 says we’re only saved by grace through faith, not by our own work. Even though I knew what the Bible said about God’s grace and forgiveness, I didn’t always believe it applied to me. I mean, I did in theory, but my mind (and the enemy) can be quick to tell me otherwise. I thought because I messed up, there would be big consequences. Ones that matched my level of sin. I found myself working hard to make sure I was good enough anyway.

Whether it’s because of something we were taught or told, we can start to believe the lie that one wrong decision can derail the rest of our lives. Our choices yield temporary setbacks, but that doesn’t mean we’re forever, permanently, and perpetually behind. Life may look different, but life can still be good. I John 1:8-9 reminds us that He provides a way out for every mistake and every intentional wrong if we confess and repent our sin.

God is bigger than you. His plan does not change based on your decisions. He is sovereign. He loves to redeem the past and our mistakes. There is no wrong you have done that cannot be forgiven. All you have to do is run to him. He is closer than you think.

When you live like you’ve been redeemed, living in the light and inviting others to do the same gets a whole lot easier. Try to say the thing you are afraid to say out loud. To God, to a friend, or a counselor. Say it aloud because that’s not who you are anymore.

The enemy knows you’re dangerous to him if you’re no longer in the dark. And you, my friend, were made to bring light.