A short transcript excerpt from a YouTube episode (Episode 432) in which two speakers discuss how shame and secrecy inhibit healing in the church. They emphasize encouraging self-disclosure, describe stigma (e.g., risking job loss for seeking help), and contrast that with stories of hope after connecting with a recovery resource (Pure Desire).
Shame and secrecy are the enemy's strategy for keeping the church from experiencing the fullness of God's amazing healing and freedom.
Shame can get a foothold in the church. I think sometimes we communicate just as much shame in what we don't say as we do in what we do say.
And once we've charted a path to wholeness and healing, then we've got to encourage people to self disclose.
If I told my elder board I was getting help through Pure Desire, I would be looking for a job the next day day.
But I remember him calling and saying, I have gotten in touch with Pure Desire. Thank you. It's the first time in my life that I've had hope.
