Being betrayed is one of the most painful things that us humans can ever experience. Often unexpected, it usually comes from the least person we suspect. When we go through this experience, may we remember that even our Savior, Jesus Christ had to go through the same painful reality.
Jesus had to experience it not only from a trusted disciple whom He foreknew would betray Him (John 13:21). He also experienced it from Peter, the one apostle who is in His inner circle — one of the first that He called to follow Him.
“For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin.” Hebrews 4:15
And so, when we accept the fact that betrayal and pain are inevitable, let us also remember that God has a purpose for everything that He allows to happen in our lives. His sovereignty and omniscience guarantee us that none of the tears we shed will be wasted. We will learn, we will grow, we will have the heart to comfort others and empathize. Most of all, our hearts will have an increased capacity to forgive.
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28
And as we grow in the area of forgiveness and mercy, we get to walk in the ways of our Savior, who though betrayed, emerged victorious over both sin and death.
Thank you for reading through our devotional today. I invite you to ponder on John 13:18-30 to dig deeper on today’s topic.
Reflection Question: How did you overcome a betrayal in your life? How does knowing Jesus also experienced it encourage you to stay strong?
Conversation with the Lord: Lord Jesus Christ, thank you that with you we can overcome betrayal and pain. Thank you for the hope that we have in you. Grant us the confidence to continue focusing on you as we endure the hardship, and learn to pass on the comfort we receive from you towards others. Amen.Â