Secrecy & Betrayal
From Anguish to Hope
From Anguish to Hope is a seven-part devotional series following Jesus’ journey from the Garden of Gethsemane to Calvary. As He faced anguish, betrayal, suffering, and silence, He walked a road many of us know all too well. Because Jesus has already traveled that road, we can make our way from anguish to hope.
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Now His betrayer had given them a sign, saying, Whomever I kiss, He is the One; seize Him. Immediately he went up to Jesus and said, Greetings, Rabbi! and kissed Him. Matthew 26:48–49 (NKJV)
I’m not sure if anything hurts more than betrayal by someone you love. If you’ve been betrayed or hurt by someone close to you, you may question, How could she go behind my back? or How could he leave me? You may be struggling with anger, unforgiveness, and bitterness.
Jesus faced secrecy, betrayal, and abandonment. Did you notice the secrecy and betrayal? Were you aware of the abandonment?
Those issues may not be easily recognized because of how Jesus handled them.
One of the things I love most about studying the Word of God is the examples of godly men and women—their challenges, struggles, and triumphs. The Bible truly is a relevant roadmap for living. Unlike a GPS (remember those?) that often required updates as new roads and streets were constructed, the Bible does not change. Its truths remain. It is a roadmap that will always get you to your destination.
As you face your hurt, I challenge you to follow the example of Jesus. I challenge you to respond as He did.
Acknowledge the situation.
In that hour Jesus said to the multitudes, Have you come out, as against a robber, with swords and clubs to take Me? I sat daily with you, teaching in the temple, and you did not seize Me (Matthew 26:55). Jesus addressed the secrecy of the people. He called them out. He spoke the truth in love.
Trust in the sovereignty of God.
But all this was done that the Scriptures of the prophets might be fulfilled (v. 56). Know that God has either orchestrated or permitted your circumstance. He is in control.
Show kindness and forgive.
But Jesus said to him, ‘Friend, why have you come?’ (v. 50). Jesus called Judas friend and healed the centurion’s ear even in the midst of betrayal.
Recognize that obedience may still result in hurt.
Then all the disciples forsook Him and fled (v. 56). Submitting to the will of God isn’t easy and may require you to stand alone.
