Thoughts That Touch My Heart

"Do you know the difference between guilt and shame? It’s vital you do. One leads to life and deliverance; the other to death and bondage. When we do something we know is wrong, it is normal for us to feel guilty…our God-given conscience has been activated. We’re convicted to change our behavior. This is good and beneficial. Shame, on the other hand, doesn’t try to correct behavior, it assaults our very being, making us believe the essence of who we are is in some way flawed. We are condemned by the accuser; made to feel worthless…broken…defective. The truth is “I am fearfully and wonderfully made.” (Psalm 139:14, NKJV) God is my advocate. Whenever and however He wants to change me, it is for my good. I will trust Him. But I will reject the lie that He is in some way ashamed of who I am."-Francis Anfuso