Betrayal
Over my life I have had several situations in which I felt personally betrayed. A violation of trust, a broken promise, or just plain deceit. In some cases this was very clear, but in many of the situations there is no direct thing that says aha! So as with many situations in life, I found myself headed to lifes manaul, the Bible.
I was quickly reminded of the greatest betrayal of all, that of Judas. As I read the story and pondered the depths of it, i realized Jesus was aware of the betrayal long before it occured, yet allowed it anyway. The one thing I know and understand about God is that he can do anything! That means he could have at any moment ceased Judas’ actions and prevented the betrayal, but he did not. Why? A master plan.
I am reminded of the words of Joseph, “You meant it for evil, but God intended it for good”. How can I ever presume to know more than God. Everything in life is not just about me. God is at work in the lives of everyone around me. I often pray “Lord use me”. It is amazing when he does, it is not always with glitter and glamour. Sometimes it is throwing me into the muck and mire. Why? to accomplish His purposes.
I recall that “God is not willing that any should perish”, that even means those that betray us. “God chastens the ones he loves”. In the act of betrayal things will often come to light. The things that are hidden (intent of the heart, etc.) will come to light. Under the light change begins to happen.
When you feel betrayed, start by asking what is going on, I mean what might God be trying to accomplish through this situation? It might be to bring some of your own crap, insecurities and weeknesses to light so that healing can begin. It might be to bring someone elses heart to light so that God can begin the redemption process. No matter what the situaion, God loves me. I read how “He endured the cross”. I think of endure, I dont think of vacation but of hardship. What great love held Him to that cross, suffered abuse and ridicule.
