“For it is not an enemy who reproaches me, then I could bear it; nor is it one who hates me who has exalted himself against me, then I could hide myself from him. But it is you, a man my equal, my companion and my familiar friend. We who had sweet fellowship together, walked in the house of God in the throng.” – Psalm 55:12
Imagine that you have a close friend. You’ve spent a lot of time together; you have traveled together. You’ve had a lot of meals together, and you’ve shared secrets with one another. Perhaps the friend is a fellow church member, and you may have spent time praying together. Then you find out that your “friend” has been behind the scenes, saying things about you that were simply not true. Think about the sense of betrayal you would feel. What would be your first reaction? Would it be to lash out at your friend? What SHOULD be your first reaction? Follow the example of David. When David experienced betrayal from his personal aide, he openly poured out his heart to God. He shared this pain with God, his best friend, his Lord. God helps us forgive former friends who have betrayed us.
Always know that Jesus can identify with your pain of betrayal. Remember that He poured His life into twelve men, even one by the name of Judas. When you are going through a time of crisis, be open and honest with God about your feelings. He knows what you’re feeling anyway. Nothing is going to surprise Him! Nothing at all. But He wants to set us free from the bitterness and resentment and hatred that betrayal brings. Ask Him for His help today. Then, with His help, go to your friend and try to make things right. Not out of bitterness, but out of love.
