Understanding Embarrassment: Overcoming Shame and Living Boldly in Christ

Embarrassment is a universal human experience that can hinder our spiritual growth and relationships. Understanding its roots and learning to navigate it with godly wisdom enables us to live with confidence and integrity.

The Origin of Embarrassment and how it Affects Us

Adam and Eve in their innocence were naked and not embarrassed, yet after they sinned, feeling unworthy and exposed, they tried to hide from God (Gen 2:25, 3:7-8). Since then, it has been the recognised practice in most cultures to physically cover the intimate parts of both the male and female body with these being off limits to all except the marriage partner and, where necessary, for medical reasons.

Embarrassment is when people are worried by what others will think. The Bible states being afraid or unduly influenced by the views and opinions of others brings a snare and the possible consequences has a restrictive control (Prov 29:25; Jn 12:42). The fear of man is a trap that ensnares us, causing us to compromise our convictions and live in bondage to others' expectations rather than in freedom to serve God.

Sin has permeated everything

Being ashamed is what we think of ourselves leading to regret and guilt. Through embarrassment barriers are created and there is a tendency to withdraw, trying to hide or remove oneself from the situation. However, we can't hide from an all-knowing God (Heb 4:13). Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death (2 Cor 7:10).

Blaming others, criticism, justifying self and being angry are also indicators that pride is hurt and we are embarrassed. For those who have suffered abuse, embarrassment can be particularly acute and deeply painful. The shame and humiliation experienced through abuse—whether physical, emotional, sexual, or verbal—can leave lasting wounds that affect how victims view themselves and their worth before God.

It is crucial to understand that the shame belongs to the perpetrator, not the victim. God sees the heart and knows the truth of every situation (1 Sam 16:7). Those who have endured abuse are not to blame for the evil actions of others. The gospel was preached even to those who are now dead, that though they might be judged in the flesh as men are, they might live in the spirit according to God (1 Pet 4:6). This assures us that God's grace extends to all who have suffered, offering hope and restoration.

If you are carrying the burden of embarrassment from abuse, bring it to God. He is the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles (2 Cor 1:3-4). He does not condemn you for what others have done to you. Instead, He offers healing and the opportunity to find your identity in Christ, not in the traumatic experiences inflicted by others.

Finding Freedom in Christ

Acknowledge to God whatever has brought humiliation and embarrassment, confessing it as sin, because it means you have failed to live with total integrity. Then allow His grace to work, so these memories will not paralyse your present progress and move on, humbler and wiser. Through the work of Christ on our behalf we can come boldly (without embarrassment) before the throne of God and present our requests to Him (Mt 7:11; Lk 11:9-13; Phil 4:6; Heb 4:16).

We must not be ashamed of the gospel or of our testimony. If anyone is ashamed of me and my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of Man will be ashamed of them when he comes in his Father's glory with the holy angels (Mk 8:38). This is a sobering reminder that our eternal destiny is at stake in how we respond to Christ and His message.

Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord or of me his prisoner. Rather, join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God (2 Tim 1:8). Paul encourages Timothy—and all believers—to stand firm in their faith regardless of the cost. The gospel was preached even to those who are now dead, that though they might be judged in the flesh as men are, they might live in the spirit according to God (1 Pet 4:6). This demonstrates that the gospel's power transcends even death.

Jesus stated if we are embarrassed to be associated with Him on earth, He will be ashamed of us at His return (Mk 8:38; 2 Tim 2:12). Paul said he was not ashamed of the gospel because it is God's method of salvation (Rom 1:16). Do not be humiliated, instead pray for boldness to speak about the great things Jesus has done for you and pray what you share will help bring the hearers to a genuine faith in Christ (Act 4:29; Eph 6:19-20; 2 Tim 1:8; 1 Pet 2:9).

Do not be embarrassed that Jesus is your Saviour

While we are ultimately answerable to God and should not be unduly concerned about what others think of us, if there are areas of our lives that can be addressed through upskilling this will be beneficial to reduce social awkwardness. We are not to cause offense or bring the Lord's reputation into disrepute by our actions and lifestyle (1 Cor 10:32; 2 Pet 2:2).

Timothy was instructed to correctly understand and preach the Scriptures so he would not be embarrassed when God examined his work (2 Tim 2:15). This early church leader is not alone: we all will give account as to how we have lived, if we have utilized the divine resources and fulfilled the divine call on our lives (Mt 12:36, 16:27; Heb 4:13). The believers were told it is not a shame to suffer for being a Christian, but rather a cause of praise to God that they were part of His family (1 Pet 4:16).

Reflection and Application:

Examine areas where fear of others' opinions influences your decisions.
Confess past embarrassments to God and receive His grace.
Pray for boldness to share your faith without hesitation.
Consider how your actions reflect on Christ's reputation.