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Isaiah 54:2, 4 CSB
[2] "Enlarge the site of your tent, and let your tent curtains be stretched out; 
do not hold back; lengthen your ropes, and drive your pegs deep.
...
[4] Do not be afraid, for you will not be put to shame; 
don't be humiliated, for you will not be disgraced. 
For you will forget the shame of your youth, and you will no longer remember the disgrace of your widowhood."
Isaiah 54:2, 4 CSB
Attached to this picture of growth and flourishing is the reality of the shame that we carry. 
And the invitation to put that shame down. 
You're worthy to stretch out your tent, to make room for yourself in this world, to put down roots. 
Don't be afraid.
The actions of growing and flourishing in v2 are the things that reduce the impact of shame in v4.
Enlarging the site of the tent may be a small step at a time. Lengthen the ropes little by little. Drive the pegs down a little further.
As we sit with these images and ideas today, what is the Spirit nudging you to put down?
What fear?
What shame?
What can be released?

What small step towards flourishing, towards healing is there to step into or step towards?
Can you take the next step?
#weareBeloved 
#takethenextstep 
#freedom

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