Encounter #55:

“Betrayed”

Read: Mark 14:10-21

Judas was disappointed that Jesus wasn't going to overthrow the Roman government. He was one of the 12 apostles. Jesus previously rebuked the disciples for chastising the woman who anointed Him with her costly perfume ( Mark 14:1-9). Judas now seized the opportunity to betray Jesus. He went to the chief priests and they were glad to pay Judas 30 pieces of silver, the price of a slave, to betray Jesus.

It was Passover time and Jesus made plans to celebrate it together with His apostles. During the Passover meal Jesus stated that someone would betray Him. All of them responded with : “Is it I?” Jesus said the one who would dip with Him in the dish is the one. Three or four would use the same dish, but when Judas dipped, Jesus acknowledged him as the betrayer.

Betrayal damages one's trust, safety and security. Parents, children, spouses, friends, family, institutions,church, etc. can betray you. Betrayal may be caused by someone gossiping about you, or confidential information was leaked out, or someone was disloyal or dishonest with you, or infidelity and cheating has effected you. Whatever the betrayal was it caused shock, grief, pain, hurt, anger, revenge, bitterness, resentment and social, emotional, spiritual and physical damage. You can't excuse, justify or minimize what has been done to you. It was, and is real. But it must be dealt with. But how?

To get over a betrayal, we must: forgive the person who betrayed us with God's grace; love them with God's love; learn to trust people again; regain our faith in God; don't betray others; pray and bless the one who did the betraying and fellowship with people of faith and vision. None of these steps are easy. But with God's help and time we can be free. Don't blame God. Jesus said that in Him there is peace (John 16:33). As you gain victory and comfort, help others who went through similar circumstances (2 Corin. 1:3-5). You are a treasure. You are special. Read Psalm 55.

Prayer: Father God, I have been betrayed. Grant me the grace, love and faith to forgive. Heal me in Jesus' Name. Amen.

Application: With God's grace help others who have experienced what you have. Give them hope.

Encounter Jesus: Because Jesus Himself was betrayed, receive His love, comfort, grace, peace and strength