Daily Devotional
Are You Living Unashamed?

December 17, 2022

Ponder This

Have you noticed when we get caught doing something wrong, we often try to justify ourselves? Jesus was innocent, but He never spoke a word. Why was that? Why did He go like a lamb to the slaughter? Because not only was He taking my sin; He was also taking my shame.

When people stand before God as sinners—not saved—they’ll stand there speechless. The Bible talks about a man who tried to come in without a wedding garment: the Bible said he was speechless (see Matthew 22:11-12). When you are outside of Christ and stand before God, every excuse will falter, every alibi will be gone, and you will have absolutely nothing to say!

Jesus could not have justified Himself without condemning me. Jesus did not say, “Pilate, I want you to know, I’m going to go ahead and let you crucify Me. I’m laying down My life, but I’m not guilty. I am dying as an innocent substitute. I’m just bearing these sins.” Had He done that, He would’ve died in dignity, but He didn’t die in dignity. He died in shame! He died as a shameful sinner! He took my shame to the cross. I love Him for that. Because Jesus Christ took my shame, I made up my mind that I’m never going to be ashamed of Him. I’m not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ, for it’s the power of God unto salvation (see Romans 1:16).

• What shame are you carrying that Jesus has already taken care of?
• Do you beat yourself up when you have done something wrong? Why or why not?

Practice This

Write out some things that would change in your life if you allowed Jesus to carry the load of shame you have on your shoulders.