No More Shame

too often I excuse how others treat me by saying to myself, “Well, I’ve hurt people too”. This can be dangerous territory for me. Like somehow someone’s bad treatment toward me is okay or somehow justified. Sometimes I don’t even realize that I should be offended or hurt by something someone says or does. Other times my feelings are raw and tender, right there at the surface and I’m hurt by the least little thing.

The closer I am in my walk with Jesus I get that nudge from the Holy Spirit. I realize more quickly now when something is off. When God’s righteous standard is falling way short. I am His daughter and He doesn’t want me to be treated badly. His desire is for all of His children to be treated with Love, Kindness, and Compassion.

Yes, the way others treat us is an indicator of their heart, and yes often times I am called to turn the other cheek. However, it’s okay to acknowledge that – I. Am. Hurt. – and to hold someone else to the same standard God holds me to. To apologize when we are wrong, to admit when we hurt others, to take ownership and responsibility for our words and actions, and to ask God to help us make it right.

I’m working to change my mindset from: “I’m hurting but I’ve hurt people too.”

Now my mindset is: “I’m hurting”

I go to God with my hurt. Trusting Him and waiting for His timing. The Holy Spirit is such an expert in relationships and feelings. It is such a precious thing to be able to go to God and just vent it all. No super spiritual wording, just raw feelings. He can handle it. Then as I wait for the Holy Spirit to guide and lead me, as I read His Word… He never fails me.