At one time or another, most of us have had the unfortunate experience of being betrayed by someone we know and love. It is painful and shocking. You probably wondered how it was even possible for a person that you trusted to become disloyal and vicious. You felt alone, hurt, offended, or even abused. Betrayal is nothing new. It is a tool that the enemy has used since the beginning of time to try and keep us from living the “rich and satisfying” life that Jesus said He came to give us in John 10:10. Betrayal divides even the best of relationships and families.
If you can relate, be encouraged! Jesus, the one who created you as His masterpiece, experience this very thing. He had chosen Judas to be one of his dearest friends, to be in His inner circle. Yet, after three years of developing the relationship, Judas betrayed Him. “It was time for supper, and the devil had already prompted Judas, son of Simon Iscariot, to betray Jesus.” (John 13:2 NLT)
The reasons for a betrayal are as many and varied. It may be from offense, disagreement, greed, jealousy… and the list goes on-and-on. The one thing that I clearly need to do to those who have betrayed me is singular: Forgive. Why?
Why Should I Forgive A Betrayer?
Refusing To Forgive Others Only Hurts Me
“Look after each other so that none of you fails to receive the grace of God. Watch out that no poisonous root of bitterness grows up to trouble you, corrupting many.” (Hebrews 12:15 NLT)
Someday, Somewhere I Will Need Forgiveness
“If you forgive those who sin against you, your heavenly Father will forgive you. 15 But if you refuse to forgive others, your Father will not forgive your sins.” (Matthew 6:14-15 NLT)
How Do I Forgive A Betrayer?
1. Pray For Them
“You have heard the law that says, ‘Love your neighbor’ and hate your enemy. But I say, love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you!” (Matthew 5:43-44 NLT)
2. Remember All You Have Been Forgiven For
“Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others.” (Colossians 3:13 NLT)
Extend grace, patience, and forgiveness even to those who have betrayed you. Make it a part of your thinking so that when it happens again in the future you will be able to live in freedom. Make it a part of your Life Palette. Don’t allow another person’s betrayal keep you from living as the masterpiece God created you to be. Keep your mind and emotions free of any bitterness that unforgiveness might bring.
Question:
What tips do you have for others when it comes to dealing with betrayal?