When Betrayal Cuts Deep, the Pain is Real
“For it was not an enemy that reproached me; then I could have borne it: neither was it he that hated me that did magnify himself against me; then I would have hid myself from him:
But it was thou, a man mine equal, my guide, and mine acquaintance. We took sweet counsel together, and walked unto the house of God in company.” Psalm 55:12-14 KJV.
Sometimes the Revelations that the Holy Spirit will give you, may break your heart — but will save you from the deceitful and wicked whom we thought were with us but in secret have been warring against us.
David poured out his heart about betrayal and the shock and grief which came from knowing who the person was who made the damage even more intense.
He expressed that if it was an enemy, someone whom he knew hated him, opposed him or with whom he had conflict, then he could have handled it, because there was no emotional attachment.
But when the reproach came from someone whom he considered “a friend” — someone whom he fought battles for; shared his personal life with — possibly even secrets, counsel, and fellowship — especially in spiritual matters (walking together to the house of God), the betrayal from someone within his circle, someone with whom he had shared trust, guidance and companionship — that for him was far more painful!
Better that he had been wounded by a physical weapon from his opposition. That he could endure!
But the connections and shared histories made the betrayal sting much more deeply. [smh]
I have been a victim of betrayal, as well as many who may read this.
But what I’ve learned is that it is important for us to rely on The holy spirit for Discernment in ALL types of relationships and associations.
When The LORD shows you who they are — Believe Him!
People aren’t always who they appear to be — even those “religious types”. Most times it’s only a mask, and soon the mask falls off.
While we are called to love and forgive, this Psalm is a reminder to proceed cautiously and prayerfully with individuals because people will fail!
“The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?” Jeremiah 17:9.
Jeremiah 17:9. shows how corrupted and deceitful the heart of man is!
Betrayal can have profound effects on us, especially on a spiritual level.
It often goes beyond emotional or relational pain, and can touch the very core of our faith, trust, and even our relationship with God.
The enemy can use betrayal to whisper lies that distort how we see ourselves in Christ (causing identity crisis).
Then we begin to have internal negative dialogues, making us feel rejected or unloved by God.
This can cause a spiritual paralysis, when we then doubt God’s Goodness and it makes us question the sincerity and loyalty of others.
If not dealt with properly, can lead to bitterness.
The un-forgiven heart can block spiritual growth and intimacy with God. That’s why David had to cry out for Healing and Justice.
“A Plea for Relief from Persecutors
A Contemplation of David. A Prayer when he was in the cave.
“I cry out to The LORD with my voice; with my voice to The LORD I make my supplication. I pour out my complaint before Him; I declare before Him my trouble.”” Psalm 142:1-2.
God sees your pain. Just like David, we can pour out our hearts to God, trusting that He will heal us, give us strength, and turn what was meant for evil into something beautiful (Romans 8:28).
“And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.” Romans 8:28.
Vengeance is The LORD’s and He will repay — for whatsoever a man sows that shall he also reap!
Shalom
~ Syreeta Thomas
My siblings and I are walking through David’s scenario and it is extremely painful. Our youngest sister is oppressed and more than likely possessed by the enemy. She is a tool in his toolbox and she is being masterfully manipulated at his behest. Walking in forgiveness is difficult, but we’ve chosen to forgive, but distance ourselves temporarily, because the betrayal is fresh and we need to protect ourselves from the vitriol.
I just discovered your posts and I’m grateful that Holy Spirit allowed me to find you. You are what I needed to shore up my faith.
So, I thank you so much for the wisdom and encouragement. Be blessed!
Ive been thru this alot. sometimes God allowed it for growth for many other reasons that were all Good. esp to draw me closer in intimacy with Him. yet many other times i have come to find that even in the body of Christ there are some who are just to put it bluntly are very narcissistic cruel hurtful and dont want to stop being that way and non one but God can help them . i know of minors under leaders who have felt so betrayed they “unlived” themselves cant say the s word online so i use unlived..its absolutely shocking as if some could care less about the devastation and destruction its as if its sadistic no fear of God or the eternal consequences of actions- its as if there are predators in leadership positions in so many places and online esp. i guess we shouldnt be shocked bc God tells us in His word these things would happen more and more in the last days. there will be many pstrs and leaders in hell no one would ever think it could be possible- for having blood on their hands. the fear of God has been lost .
Even though it hurt so much, I always find that praying for those who hurt us, that they will come to know the Lord and the Power of His Resurrection is a powerful weapon, that gives us peace and compassion for others, not to mention how the Lord will work in their lives to bring about change.
True..amen..