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word4U2day
2026-08-02
Responding to shame (1)
When we have been hurt, abused or lied to, we can find our self-worth becomes undermined. We begin to think: 'If someone did that to me, there must be something wrong with me.' We can feel like we're damaged goods, like we're not good enough and that we're the sort of person who just gets used by others.
But this is not the truth. What happens to us doesn't determine our identity. Our identity determines how we respond to what happens to us. When we are secure in who God says we are, we will refuse to let negative things like shame and guilt become our go-to responses. Bad experiences don't have to change the way we think about ourselves or change the way we live.
The Bible says: 'Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. For I am the LORD your God' (Isaiah 43:1-3 NIV).
God promises to be with us, whatever we go through. And He promises that the things we go through will not defeat us. When we feel knocked down, God says: 'I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with unfailing kindness. I will build you up again and you... will be rebuilt' (Jeremiah 31:3-4 NIV). So, whatever we have experienced, let's rise up, let go of shame and live knowing our true identity as loved, accepted children of God.
Links to Bible verses: Holy Bible
Figuring out life can be challenging. But, with this daily youth inspiration, we hope you will find the wisdom, courage, and insight you need to live out your faith in the real, messy world.
word4U2day is brought to you by I AM Youth in partnership with Celebration that also writes The Word for Today. The material is centred around youth Bible verses. It is designed to speak into certain circumstances and to encourage young people to find joy and peace. Your current circumstances do not need to define who you are.
word4U2day is available on www.iamyouth.co.za, via email and through our mobile app.
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