One word says it all. One word can turn a person’s world upside down. That word? BETRAYAL.
I’m not sure there is a much more crueler word than that one. It congers up feelings of hatred, of anger, of spoken and unspoken words. It makes our blood boil. It makes us shiver.
That word came to my mind this morning as I read a passage of Scripture. Contrary to what you may be expecting, it was not about Judas’ betrayal of Jesus. In all honesty, I’m guessing most of us probably think of that when the word betrayal is mentioned.
Actually this passage is from Psalm 55. David wrote it. There were multiple times David was betrayed so I am unsure who this is speaking of, but it is still a sharp jab to David’s side. Here is the Scripture: “It is not an enemy who taunts me-I could bear that. It is not my foes who so arrogantly insult me-I could have hidden from them. Instead, it is you-my equal, my companion and close friend. What good fellowship we once enjoyed as we walked together to the house of God.” (Verses 12-14 NLT)
What do you think? You surely sense his pain. I do. Perhaps the ultimate betrayal is from a friend. We’re not talking about the man without a country who betrays his country. We are talking about a friend who betrays a friend. David describes him as “my equal, my companion and close friend.” OUCH!
How did David survive the betrayal? Not by lashing out. Not by revenge. Not my getting even. Here is his secret:“But I will call on God, and the Lord will rescue me. Morning, noon, and night I cry out in my distress, and the Lord hears my voice.” (55:16-17 NLT)
The next time you are betrayed (which I hope never happens) it’s not enough to say, “I should have chosen a better friend.” You could not have known. Rather, take your distress, your broken heart to God. You can’t change the actions or words of your former friend, but you can take charge of your reaction. Here’s some further advice from David: “I trust in God, so why should I be afraid? What can mere mortals do to me?” (Psalm 56:11 NLT)
Wise words, indeed, Bill. May we all be quick to call on our Lord and Savior when we are feeling let down by someone we thought was our friend. And might we pray to NOT be the one to betray another.
Blessings, and have a great weekend!
Wonderful words Martha. I especially like the last part about praying to not betray a friend. I pray you and Danny have a great weekend also.
Good point Bill. Having been betrayed by my ex-husband, who had an affair and ended our 15yr marriage, I know that pain well. However, through all that pain, I learned to walk with Christ, left the catholic church, and for the first time really understand how to trust God. I prayed not to be bitter, revengul, or hateful towards him, and I never was. Going through all of that I came out with wanting a relationship with Christ and pursuing how to do that, and devoted my life to Christ. My pain ended up being my biggest gain.
Love this story Gail! Thanks for sharing it. I can attest to your desire to follow Jesus. In all our talks I have never heard you say something vengeful or spiteful toward your ex. That shows the heart of Christ. Thanks for being that witness.