Antidote to Shame

Read:

I Peter 5:5 “In the same way, you who are younger, submit yourselves to your elders. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.”

Proverbs 11:2 “When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.”

Think:

In the animated movie, Avatar, there was an exchange between an aging general, Iroh, and a determined young prince, Zuko. Iroh advised his nephew, Zuko, to release his shame so he could be free from his inner turmoil. Zuko replied, “But I don’t feel any shame at all! I’m as proud as ever!” Iroh shot back, “Prince Zuko, pride is not the opposite of shame but its source. True humility is the only antidote to shame.”

True humility brings healing and is a position of the heart. It admits our needs while acknowledging our value before God. It builds a sense of giving, not receiving. Humility recognizes the work of Jesus and allows us to reflect on Him. Jesus was crucified, the most shameful death imaginable. He humbled Himself for us; He taught us humility by His life and death.

Act:

Today, put the needs of others before your own. Find ways to live out humility in your relationships.

Pray:

God, You were unselfish for me. You humbled Yourself for me. Enable me to become more like You. Amen.