Reading through the Bible chronologically this year.  From my reading yesterday it’s interesting to see the relationship between sin and shame.  Genesis 2:25 says that Adam & Eve felt no shame; however the moment they turned from God & did their own thing (sin), Genesis 3:7 says “they suddenly felt shame”.

Sin still results in shame which causes us to fear God and miss out on who God created us to be.  Shame is a powerful emotion in destroying relationships and its precursor is our choice to sin.

From my reading today, the Lord told Cain (Genesis 4:7) “Sin is crouching at the door, eager to control you.  But you must subdue it and be its master.”

If you are a follower of Christ, you have the power to subdue sin.  Ephesians 1:19-20 says the same power that raised Jesus from the dead is available to those of us who have believed in Jesus.

As a follower of Jesus you also have a new identity – you are a new person – 2 Corinthians 5:17.  Live according to your new identity – stay in close fellowship with Christ – surrender to Him daily and you’ll have power to say no to sin.  When you do, you can be set free from the shame the enemy wants to use in your life to destroy your relationship with God and others.

By the way, restoration of closeness and fellowship with God and others comes through confession of sin and asking forgiveness which works against the power of shame in your life.  (1 John 1:9)

Just a few thoughts as we begin a new year.