You must learn to stare shame in the face, then walk away.
Jay Stringer writes, “My research found that 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.”
Andy Casagrande, the cameraman for Discovery Channel’s Shark Week, was asked what he would do if a great white shark came swimming right at him. His answer: swim directly at the shark with the camera. This triggers a defense mechanism in the shark, and he will turn away. He said, “If you don’t act like prey, the shark won’t treat you like prey.”
In recovery, we learn to quit acting like prey. We embrace the truth of Scripture: “There is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus” (Romans 8:1).
Recovery Step: Guilt says you have done something bad. Shame says you are a bad person. Shame is not of God. Confess your struggles and turn a new leaf. Enter the room of God’s grace. And leave your shame at the door.
