"I sought the Lord, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears. Those who look to him are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame." Psalms 34:4-5 NIV

The Bible, in a quick computer search, reveals 119 references to the word "shame." It is no wonder that so many in the Judeo-Christian heritage experience shame as one of the main emotions of their religions.

However, shame is systemic in the human psyche - perhaps it is the "original sin" and the very thing we must conquer in our journey with Christ to be able to lead healthy and creative lives.

What is the nature of shame?

Psychologists and psychiatrists are learning that many of the conditions and behaviors previously defined or ascribed to other conditions are actually stem from shame. Shame is being identified as the root of most depression, anxiety disorders, relationship problems, and sexual disfunction. In fact, one writer suggested that shame is the basis of of crime and 'all extravagant behavior.'

“There’s no record of a violent action other than as a reaction to shame or humiliation.” Donald I. Nathanson, M.D.

Is there shame in you?

If your theology and the daily experience of your faith does not free you from shame, then maybe "you ain't doin' it right."

For in Scripture it says: "See, I lay a stone in Zion, a chosen and precious cornerstone, and the one who trusts in him will never be put to shame." 1 Peter 2:6 NIV

I personally do not have time to live in a revolving door worried about my 'sinful nature' vs. 'godly nature'. Paul dealt with this issue in his legal brief called the book of Romans. He said, "Yeah, I was like that but, bottom line: in all these things we are now more than conquerors through Him who loves us."

What does shame do to us spiritually? Or rather, what does spiritual shame do to us?