Embarrassed

<<humiliated>>

Adam and Eve in their innocence were naked and not embarrassed, yet after they sinned, feeling unworthy and exposed, they tried to hide from God (Gen 2:25, 3:7,8). Since then, it has been the recognised practice in most cultures to physically cover the intimate parts of both the male and female body with these being off limits to all except the marriage partner and, where necessary, for medical reasons.

Embarrassment is when people are worried by what others will think. The Bible states being afraid or unduly influenced by the views and opinions of others brings a snare and the possible consequences has a restrictive control (Prov 29:25; Jn 12:42). [Being ashamed is what we think of ourselves leading to regret and guilt]. Through embarrassment barriers are created and there is a tendency to withdraw, trying to hide or remove oneself from the situation. However, we can’t hide from an all knowing God (Heb 4:13).

Blaming others, criticism, justifying self and being angry are also indicators that pride is hurt and we are embarrassed.

Acknowledge to God whatever has brought humiliation and embarrassment, confessing it as sin, because it means you have failed to live with total integrity. Then allow His grace to work so these memories will not paralyse your present progress and move on, humbler and wiser. Through the work of Christ on our behalf we can come boldly (without embarrassment) before the throne of God and present our requests to Him (Mt 7:11; Lk 11:9-13; Phil 4:6; Heb 4:16).

Jesus stated if we are embarrassed to be associated with Him on earth, He will be ashamed of us at His return (Mk 8:38; 2 Tim 2:12). Paul said he was not ashamed of the gospel because it is God’s method of salvation (Rom 1:16). Do not be humiliated, instead pray for boldness to speak about the great things Jesus has done for you and pray what

Do not be embarrassed that Jesus is your Saviour

you share will help bring the hearers to a genuine faith in Christ (Act 4:29; Eph 6:19,20; 2 Tim 1:8; 1 Pet 2:9).

While we are ultimately answerable to God and should not be unduly concerned about what others think of us, if there are areas of our lives that can be addressed through upskilling this will be beneficial to reduce social awkwardness. We are not to cause offense or bring the Lord's reputation into disrepute by our actions and lifestyle (1 Cor 10:32; 2 Pet 2:2).

Timothy was instructed to correctly understand and preach the Scriptures so he would not be embarrassed when God examined his work (2 Tim 2:15). This early church leader is not alone: we all will give account as to how we have lived, if we have utilized the divne resources and fulfilled the divine call on our lives (Mt 12:36, 16:27; Heb 4:13). The believers were told it is not a shame to suffer for being a Christian, but rather a cause of praise to God that they were part of His family (1 Pet 4:16).