Shame Has No Place at the Cross

Recently, I’ve been feeling shame for mistakes I’ve made in the past. Deep down I know those thoughts are from the enemy, because God has already forgiven me. Yet the devil tries to whisper lies: “You didn’t read your Bible enough. You didn’t pray or repent enough. You’re not really forgiven.”

One day, I didn’t even feel like going to a prayer meeting at church, but my Tia insisted I go. The moment I walked in, I felt the presence of God. That night, the pastor spoke about how the enemy fills us with shame and tries to convince us that we’re unforgivable. But the truth is, Jesus already paid the price on the cross. When those lies come, I’m reminded of the cross... that my debt is finished and I am forgiven.

As I was later reading John 14, I was reminded that God already has a place for me in heaven. If He has secured eternity for me, why should I keep holding on to shame over sins He has already covered? Jesus Himself said: “I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. You may ask me anything in my name, and I will do it.” (John 14:13–14)

So I want to encourage you: keep reading the Word. Keep going to church — even on the days you don’t feel like it. Sometimes that’s exactly when God has a message waiting for you, and the enemy will try to keep you away. And if you’re struggling with shame today, let this be your reminder: you are forgiven, and Jesus has already prepared a place for you in heaven.

Prayer

Father, thank You that in Christ I am fully forgiven. When the enemy whispers shame and tries to remind me of my past, remind me of the cross. Help me to rest in the truth that Jesus paid the price in full and has prepared a place for me in heaven. Guard my heart from lies, and strengthen me to keep seeking You in Your Word and in fellowship with Your church. Thank You for Your mercy, Your presence, and Your promise. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Worship Song