This generation believes — oddly — that humiliation brings reformation.
But Joseph refused to open his — apparently unfaithful — fiance to public scandal. She was found to be pregnant before the wedding, and Joseph knew he wasn’t the father.
Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a public example, was minded to put her away privily –– Matt. 1: 19 KJV. Justice — righteousness — was being considerate and tender with her.
Shaming can be traumatic, emotionally damaging. It is antithetical to God’s plan: He forgives and forgets. His lovingkindness (not severity) is what leads to repentance (Ro. 2:4). We despise the Puritans, and then we practice their worst.
This Christmas give the ultimate gift: forgiveness with forgetfulness. If restoration is your aim, drop the Nazi tactic of shaming.
Mustard Seed Budget 
Amen!
Yes! It is love that moves the stubborn heart, not guilt or shame. Even the grinch could not resist it! Merry Christmas!
This is an excellent point!
Amen, there are many broken adults who endured shaming when they were children.
Help us, Jesus!
A modern day pillory. Those that made this decision have probably done the same thing or more?
Oh yeah! I forgot to include that! Thanks for reminding me.
Good guy, you really love her. People like you are getting rare now.
most perpetrators have no sense of shame anyway, so it is a wasted effort!
So true!