SoulWork Notes

e86 Search Me: in Shame

A Reflection on Genesis 3:7-13, 21

As you move through this week,

notice where shame causes hiding.

Not to judge yourself.

Not to push your feelings away.

But to bring them honestly into the presence of God.

Shame often convinces us

that because we have failed,

we are failures.

It whispers that we are too exposed,

too broken,

too far gone

to remain fully seen and fully loved.

But Genesis 3 reminds us of something deeper.

Even after Adam and Eve hid,

God came looking for them.

“Where are you?”

Not with condemnation.

But with relationship still open.

And in the middle of their shame,

God responded with care.

As you move through this week,

allow yourself to remain present long enough

to notice this truth:

Shame may cause hiding.

But God continues moving toward us with love.

A Prayer to Carry

Gracious and faithful God: Thank You for seeking me even when shame causes hiding. When I feel exposed, unworthy, or afraid to be seen, remind me that Your love has not moved away from me. Where shame has created distance, bring nearness. Where shame has distorted identity, speak truth gently again. Lead me in Your way everlasting. In Jesus’name, amen.

Go Deeper: Notes from the Sanctuary

If you desire to go deeper this week, I invite you to join my newsletter, Notes from the Sanctuary. Subscribers receive additional SoulWork resources—guided reflections, Scripture, and practices that are not shared on the podcast or in these notes. It’s a quiet space to continue this work with God, slowly and prayerfully, throughout the week.

[Join here]

If you’d like to help sustain this work, you’re welcome to support it here.

Until next time, may God bless and keep you, may God’s face shine upon you, and may God grant you peace as you continue your SoulWork.

Disclaimer: The content shared on the SoulWork Sanctuary podcast is for informational and inspirational purposes only. While I am an ordained minister and trained spiritual director, I am not a licensed therapist or medical professional. This podcast does not provide medical or mental health advice and should not be used as a substitute for professional care. Please seek support from a qualified provider if needed.