| Our faith journey is full of encounters of discomfort…maybe we have “fallen short” of the mark, someone has hurt us, or there is an unexpected circumstance out of our control. What is the source and nature of this “heat” we are experiencing? Are we suffering from the damaging grip of shame, or the constructive urging of the Holy Spirit's conviction? While both can bring about a sense of unease or “heat”, their emotional impact and ultimate outcomes are not the same. Recognizing this distinction is vital for living in freedom and spiritual maturity, rather than being imprisoned in a cell of self-condemnation.
“For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.” Galatians 5:1 (ESV)
Shame, at its core, launches a direct assault on our identity with devious lies that resonate deep within, telling us "I am bad," "I am worthless," or "I am fundamentally damaged." This can be debilitating as the emotional consequences of shame are heavy and isolating. God does not desire us to live in the fear of exposure where we choose to hide. The first instance of shame in the Bible occurs after Adam and Eve's disobedience, leading to their awareness of nakedness and a desire to hide (Genesis 3:7-10). He wants us to turn to Him instead of running away from Him. He loves us and He is near.
In contrast, the conviction brought by the Holy Spirit focuses on specific actions, thoughts and behaviors that stray from God's will and goodness. It does not attack our worth (we were created in God’s likeness/image) but gently (and sometimes strongly) positions our hearts to see where correction is needed. Basically, it is when we accept the truth and are driven to do the right thing. This distinction is crucial. Conviction is a call for repentance and restoration, an invitation to an enjoyable relationship with the Creator of the Universe.
As humans who want-what-we-want-when-we-want-it, embracing the conviction of the Holy Spirit can be challenging, yet it takes us down the happy road to freedom and spiritual maturity. It's a loving nudge from a compassionate God who desires our wholeness. Humbly distinguishing the Spirit’s prompting from the heavy burden of shame is a wisdom birthed through God’s amazing grace. Let us listen for the voice that calls us to serve others, forgive and praise God without ceasing, rather than the lies that condemns our very being.
“And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.” Philippians 1:6 (ESV)
He is near! | 
