Both the man and his wife were naked, yet felt no shame.

Genesis 2:25 CSB

What makes you feel ashamed? I hate making dumb mistakes, like smarting off without thinking before I speak. In the past, I made many choices that I’m ashamed of. And I still do today if I don’t set my heart on Jesus.

In the garden of Eden there was a time when there was no shame because there was no sin. But, sin came with dishonorable choices made by its inhabitants.

Shame and sin are connected. God created a perfect garden and people without sin and shame. Choosing to listen the Satan changed that sinless existence and brought shame.

As as child, my parents taught me to obey. They gave me guidelines and parameters for behavior. They wanted the best for me. If I obeyed, I wasn’t afraid to face them. If I tried to hide a sin, I tried to hide from my parents! Just like Adam and Eve hid from the Father!

God is holy and calls us to be holy as we see in 1 Peter 1:16 CSB, Be holy, because I am holy. And yet, we sin.

My desire, as I am sure yours is as well, is to live in obedience to Jesus. I’ve often prayed for God to not allow me to get by with any sin, big or small, unintentional or rebellious choice.

Who perceives his unintentional sins? Cleanse me from my hidden faults. Moreover, keep your servant from willful sins; do not let them rule me.Then I will be blameless and cleansed from blatant rebellion (Psalm 19:12-13, CSB). 

Knowing God’s Word is essential to know His will. Obedience to His commands brings a sense of freedom, peace, and contentment. And there is no shame if there is no sin.

Lord, please don’t let me get by with sin, no matter how small. Thank you that when I disobey and repent, you give grace and forgiveness. Thank you for the blood of Jesus that covers my shame.

Chris Adams