---"I AM NOT ASHAMED" ~~
--[Institute In Basic Life Principles]

--Shame is the uncomfortable feeling of having done something wrong or having been ridiculed, mocked, or humiliated by others. Shame hurts. But shame is a function of our values--what we hold in our heart to be important. Thus, each of us needs to ask 'What do we value? Do we value current cultural norms? Do we value traditions? Or do we value the Gospel and a relationship with Jesus, Who is the Way, the Truth, and the Life (John 14:6)'?

Saul was a religious zealot, a Hebrew of Hebrews, a strict Pharisee trained under Gamaliel. Proud of his religious stature, he thought he was righteous for persecuting Christians. He even stood by and encouraged the stoning of Stephen. What happened to change his values? He had a personal, loving encounter with Jesus, Who asked Saul why he was persecuting Him. Saul was confronted with the reality of Truth. Truth always trumps religious traditions, pride, and public opinion. When Saul, the Apostle Paul, no longer considered Christians to be shameful, he then felt shame for his previous attitudes, beliefs, and actions against Jesus.

Paul boldly stated, "I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ" (Romans 1:16). He considered all his previous accolades as dung compared to the excellency of knowing Jesus (Philippians 3:8). If you know Jesus, you can say the same. Do not allow culture, traditions or public opinion to redirect your values away from the power of the Gospel to save and set people free.

Remember, Jesus said, "For whosoever shall be ashamed of me and of my words, of him shall the Son of man be ashamed, when he shall come in his own glory, and in his Father's and of the holy angels" --[Luke 9:26]. --