Shame ≠ Hope

 Shame, how many of us has felt this or continue to feel it daily? In the past, before I got locked up it was almost daily. I failed God again. Failed at controlling the lust filled thoughts. The bitterness deep inside still hung on from the abuse as a child. Because of all that I felt was shame filled. It pressed down on me like a Mack truck. Crushing the life out of my spirit. Being reminded daily of my failures and sins. From cheating and leaving my wife, never being good enough at anything I did for my second wife, to the sex crazed person I'd became. It broke me down. (Do you feel like this?) Then I gave my all to Jesus. My life, my heart, and my soul was His to take over. Did that mean there was no more days of shame? No more condemnation? Nope! Shoot, it's easy for us inmates to be overtaken in our shame. This leads us to hopelessness. According to the Apostle Paul, "therefore there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus." (Rom. 8:1) As a follower of Jesus, we have no shame! Sure we can regret and feel sorry for our past sins, but because of Jesus' blood those have been washed away. I, myself, on some days feel a deep regret. For the pain I have caused, the many missed opportunities as a husband and a father/step-father. Yes, I am so very sorry for these actions. However, we as His children, can't live in the past. We can't allow ourselves to be consumed with all the wrong doings we've done or the wrong that has been done to us. Even in the darkest days, Christians have hope! That is our faith in Jesus Christ! Romans 5:1 says we've been justified by that very faith and made righteous in the the eyes of God. Hallelujah! Thank you Father! Don't allow thoughts or circumstances to steal the peace and joy that the Holy Spirit has put inside you! Sing or listen to praise music, seek the Lord by diving into The Word, reach out to other followers of Christ if you are feeling lost. You say you don't know Christ? What's stopping you from reaching out for a relationship with Him? Send us a message, we'll gladly talk to you about starting that relationship. 

(Side note from Mandi: Nick is telling you his story and his walk with finding Jesus Christ. I will gladly step out of my comfort zone and share my testimony.  If you send an email though the blog I will get your message and will help you on your own path. We are always here for you.)