Two emotions we were never meant to carry: fear and shame. These emotions were only felt after Adam & Eve ate from the forbidden tree.

In the Garden there was no need to fear. All of their needs were met. They enjoyed the presence of their Creator. There was no competition, no striving. The enemy was there but they had been given authority over him and directions to subdue him. 

In the Garden there was no shame because there was no sin. No need for clothes because there was no lust or perverse thoughts. They were completely right with God.

Jesus’ death and resurrection was a reset button. We were restored to our original purposes which includes experiencing no fear and no shame. 

Why should we fear? We have heavenly resources. We can enjoy the presence of our Creator. There is no need to compete or strive because there are unlimited resources. Yes, the enemy is here but we still have authority over him and instructions to subdue him.

Why are we ashamed? The Bible says when we look to God our faces are never covered with shame. We are perpetually right before God. We are forgiven, and holy and blameless in His sight. He sees our imperfections and loves us the same. Others may not be as forgiving but we should only care about our Father’s opinion.

Fear and shame were not in the Garden. So let us choose to not take fear and shame into the New Year. They were born after the fall. They were crucified on the cross. They have no room in 2019.

“Then the eyes of both of them were opened, and they realized they were naked; so they sewed fig leaves together and made coverings for themselves.

He answered, “I heard you in the garden, and I was afraid because I was naked; so I hid.””

Genesis 3:7, 10 NIV