Day 27

Shame

As we read in yesterday’s story, shame kept Brandon in the shadows avoiding God. Shame is the dominant emotion/mentality plaguing the porn user and causes them to isolate from God and others.

Shame is often the negative emotion that the porn addict has learned to medicate with porn.

The shame that fuels their porn addiction is the same shame that keeps them stuck in the shadows.

Shame has always led to hiding. In Genesis 3:1-10, Adam hid from God. Adam and Eve covered up from one another. When people hide they stay stuck.

Mental health counselor Jay Stringer surveyed almost 4,000 men and women who sought professional help for sexual brokenness. He concluded, "Shame was the most consistent key driver of unwanted sexual behavior. Shame convinces us that we are unwanted, and we pursue behavior that confirms it. To find freedom, disarm the power of shame."

Today’s Challenge:

1. Watch the video on shame.
2. Answer the reflection questions.

Reflection Questions:

1. What are some of the differences between guilt and shame?
2. What are manifestations of shame in your life?
3. How does shame fuel porn use?
4. What are some of the ways to disempower shame?