Jeff Iskra

# re: Shame sucks...

I have helped a number of people through shame. I think it has an important use in bringing our attention to our sin. Repentance and recommitment is the obvious way to release shame. Some people are so deep in their shame that i suggest to them that they lay down on the floor as if at Jesus' feet, apologize for their sin and their shame, and ask Jesus to take it up and away from them by actually lifting their hands upward. If this is done sincerely it almost always produces weeping to the core of our heart. For some things like childhood abuse this could actually be done on a daily basis along with counseling. I hope you find this useful.

# re: Shame sucks...

I had a lot of shame before I let god into my life. I was a shamed of being who I was. I was a shamed of where I came from and my family.
Then I had the opportunity to let god into my life and realize he had a plan for me that could top no other plan I could imagine.
When I came to Warehouse 727, I knew what god could do for me and I wanted to start giving back. When I was baptised for the 2nd time, and started to be a part of the church family, more miracles happened. The more I did, the more rewards god has given to me. I have no shame. I learned through god that I am who I am and it is ok. I still feel a part of the 727 family even though I have moved. God has put me on another journey and I have another church family and because of Pastor Jeff and Pastor Bobby. I got involved with my new church right away. They welcomed me with open arms and I have two positions. I can't say enough about gods plan, except he has a plan for everyone. What I can say is this, let god in and take over and just watch the miracles that come. I know first had as I see them everyday. It is as simple as letting go and letting god. I do it everyday and have enjoyed my life every minute.
Remember these words . I can't, god can and i will let him.

# re: Shame sucks...

Thank you, Pastor Jeff for following God's leading in this! I know the devil will try to get me down by bringing up my past. Much has been given to me in the way of God's grace...for me to see and know. And I see so many of our people struggling so with this..unable to accept this tremendous gift God has for each one...His love, mercy, grace, faithfulness...freedom! I think that's why Lynn and I have agreed to pray and fast (breakfasts and lunches) for a time..to focus on the church...not for credit..but that you may pray for us AS we pray.
We love & pray for you!! Gail

# re: Shame sucks...

After I was saved, I still felt the need to "punish" myself by remembering all of the things that I was so ashamed of in my past. I now realize that this "self-imposed" punishment is in reality, a slap at the redemption that Jesus gave us through his death and resurrection. I no longer dwell on my past mistakes but take pleasure in knowing that Christ's blood has covered all my past sins. My job now is to keep Christ in my life for the rest of my life here on earth.

# re: Shame sucks...

I have made so many bad choices in my life. Those choices have hurt each of my five children. I have recently written a book about it. It has not been edited yet. But in writing about it, I have experienced some healing, but shame has been a big part of my life. Please pray that I can just let go and let God.

# re: Shame sucks...

Here's the dilemma as I see it. If I let go of my shame over events of yesterday that are actually responsible for shaping the person that I am today, do I lose who I am? The truth is...yes. And that is probably the reason we just don't let go, yet we are supposed to. We are supposed to empty ourselves so Christ can do a work in us. It's easy to give that lip service, but a bit more daunting to actually do it. Our old broken self can be quite the security blanket at times. Life is so overwhelming through big changes that it's easier to stay stuck in our bad habits. Just my two cents.

# re: Shame sucks...

I must admit I am not much of a theologeon or even someone who readily quotes scripture but I do understand what shame can do to your life and your relationship with others, especialy those you love. The biggest problem I have had with shame is that it seems to take over or override much of my thoughts when I hold onto or imbrace shame. When embracing such thoughts the good thoughts are simply blocked out including Gods grace and without Gods grace life sucks.Why do we do this to ourselves? I don't know but I do know it's not from God.I don't always need to understand something completely to get rid of it, just hand it off to the one who gave me a get out of shame card.

# re: Shame sucks...

Shame is a double edged sword. There are things in my life I would never tell anyone, simply because of the shame and guilt.
However, because of my shame and guilt, I feel strongly about not condemning others. If I am the lowest of the low, then how dare I condemn another?
Shame is a deep issue and one that can only be healed through Christ.
The series has been a huge help for me.
Thank you!