The “Ottas,” the “Gottas” and the “Shouldas”
Sources of False Guilt
Scripture Text: Gal 5:1; John 8:32
In the fifth session, Pat seeks the truth behind tough questions.
The "Ottas" and the "Gottas" and the "Shouldas" are messages we pick up from our surroundings...our “world.” Why can’t you? Why don’t you? Why do you always? These are not honest questions. They are veiled condemnations, meaning you are not ok the way you are. You don’t measure up. This is another source of false guilt.
Imagine how freeing to be able to say, “I am not on trial and you are not my judge!”
Session Five - The “Ottas,” the “Gottas” and the “Shouldas”
Discussion Questions
- Pat’s mother taught her a little ditty when she was quite young which still affects her today. Can you think of something someone said or did to you (positive or negative) that still influences you today?
- Is there someone in your life who functions like the Law? Is it possible that you function as the Law in someone else's life?
- How familiar are you with the concept of Non-attachment? How might non-attachment be a source of false guilt?
- Think of the assertion, "I’m not on trial and you are not my judge." What are some situations where this would be an appropriate response and where might it not be appropriate.
- Read Galatians 5:1. In what ways is Galatians 5:1 a helpful word when dealing with false guilt picked up from others?
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Authors
Pat has had many "careers" including missionary to Pakistan with the World Mission Prayer League (WMPL), professor of Missions at the Lutheran Bible Institute, Personnel Director of WMPL and PNW Regional Coordinator for WMPL. She now enjoys life at Tacoma Lutheran Retirement Community (now known as eliseo.) Livin' Forgiven grew out of her own life experience. As Pat says, "When it comes to guilt trips, I'm a frequent flyer." Pat has traveled nationally and internationally presenting this life-changing message.
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