Week 2
When We Feel Ashamed
Most of us look like we are at least somewhat put together. But often, underneath the veneer of coping, there are, as one survey respondent wrote, “the near constant internal voices telling me that I’m a bad mother.”
That voice is shame, and it’s as old as the garden of Eden.
This week, we go back to the beginning with Eve as shame slithers in to taunt and deceive. The good news is that God responds immediately, refusing to let shame have the final word. As we study God’s response to shame, moms will have the chance to:
notice where and how God seeks us out when we are hiding in shame
tell God the “whole truth” about shame
trust God by choosing relationship over isolation, God’s truth over Satan’s lies, and forgiveness and healing over condemnation
experience the freedom to enjoy the life God’s given us
become a shame-breaking agent of shalom
Sadly, too often moms experience shame in their relationships with one another or in the church. Creating a shame-free environment in your group can be one of the greatest gifts you give your moms. Revisiting group commitments and emphasizing “don’t give advice” may be helpful.
Prep
Read through the study.
Print Bible passage. (optional)
Cue up the video on whatever screen you will be using. (Scan the QR code in your book on page 33 to access the video.)
Pray for your moms, and all the shame moms feel. Ask God to be present to them in the midst of shame, and for them to learn how to be present to God.
Session
Remind folks of group commitments. (2 minutes)
Allow each participant one to two minutes to answer the Check-In questions on page 33. (20 minutes). If your group is large, you may want people to share in groups of 3 or 4.
Have someone read the introduction on pages 33 and 34. (2 minutes)
Watch this week’s video. (11 minutes)
Complete the opening activity on page 34. (15 minutes). If your group is large, you may want people to share their triggers in groups of 2 or 3.
Have someone read Genesis 2:15-3:13 aloud. (4 minutes)
Answer the study questions on pages 35-40. (30 minutes)
Complete this week’s Holy Spirit Check-In on page 40 (5 minutes)
Practice the Breath Prayer on page 41 (2 minutes)
Pray the Leader’s Benediction on page 41 over your group. (1 minute)
