by David Cannistraci
If you are suffering under the weight of reproach or would like to minister to those who are, keep the following steps in mind:
1. Reclaim the promises of God. Isaiah 61:7 promises: “Instead of your shame you shall have double honor, and instead of confusion they shall rejoice in their portion. Therefore in their land they shall possess double; everlasting joy shall be theirs.”
This verse lets us know that He has lifted our shame and we are free to move forward into the land with a double portion blessing. Take the promises of God that the enemy stole from you back into your spirit and hold them tight. They are yours.
2. Remove the shame. Once you trust these promises, you can remove the condition of shame by addressing it in the name of Jesus and commanding it to disconnect from you. Boldly condemn the enemy's shame and the lies that breed hopelessness. Ask a strong believer to agree with you in faith for freedom from every torment.
3. Receive restoration. Allow the healing, restoring work of the Holy Spirit to roll back every reproach of the enemy. Allow a new mind-set that is aligned with the will of God to form. Let a new confession come from your lips.
Agree with the truth that you are being restored and made new. Say aloud, “The Lord has removed my shame, and this reproach has been rolled away!” Your confession allows faith to rise up and lift the shame from your life (see Rom. 10:10-11).
A woman came into my office who had faithfully served in a ministry until she was prompted to leave by the unwanted advances of a spiritual leader. Reluctant to tell others of her situation, she quietly resigned.
When some who did not understand her decision questioned and then condemned her for “abandoning the sheep,” she found herself not only alone but also in the shadows of a haunting reproach. She believed she had failed. She had lost hope.
After telling me her story, we prayed together and walked through these steps. The Lord Jesus rolled back her reproach. Her tears were turned into joy because God's promises were claimed and the shame had to lift. Today, she walks in her inheritance.
The same freedom can come to you in Christ. Claim the promises of God, renounce the shame and hopelessness, and rejoice in the power of the cross. Your reproach will be rolled away, and soon you'll be crossing over into your promised land.
