Can shame exist if you don't believe in a higher power? That's the question we tackle in our latest thought-provoking episode with my good friend Tim from our Psych and Theo podcast. We challenge conventional beliefs by exploring how shame manifests within Christianity and secular societal frameworks alike. With help from experts like Brené Brown, we dissect the intricate relationship between shame and identity, contrasting it with guilt, which is more about our actions. Together, we unravel how personal experiences and cultural norms shape these emotions, examining if and how shame persists without a theological backdrop. Our discussion is enriched by listener-submitted questions, which push us to consider whether societal moral frameworks can independently fuel feelings of shame.
We then take a global perspective, analyzing how shame operates across different cultures and eras, including biblical narratives. We explore the profound impacts of shame on individuals like the woman at the well and the apostle Paul, reflecting on how their stories reveal the complex interplay between shame, personal history, and spiritual beliefs. Additionally, we scrutinize the roles of fear, guilt, and shame in maintaining and challenging societal norms. Movements like LGBT rights and body positivity come under the spotlight, as we ponder whether rejecting shame in these areas is beneficial or detrimental. This episode invites you to rethink the role of shame in modern life, advocating for a nuanced understanding that balances acknowledgment with empathy.
My mission is to help you understand your attachment style to learn how you can heal from the pain you’ve experienced in your relationship with God, the church and yourself.
I look forward to walking alongside you as you draw closer to Christ!
