[RE]FOCUS Day 46
Week 7: Redeeming
Day 4: Denied, Betrayed, Abandoned
By Wendy Hawkins
READ:
Mark 14:44, 50, 72 Now the betrayer, Judas, had given them a sign…they all left him and fled… and Peter remembered how Jesus had said to him, “Before the rooster crows twice, you will deny me three times.” And Peter broke down and wept.
Have you ever been denied something? I think that we can respond with a yes to that question. Maybe it’s been an insurance claim, or credit, or that password that just won’t work. In this Bible reading, Peter denied Jesus, not just once but three times.
Have you ever felt betrayed? Although this is not a word that is often used today, the feelings of betrayal can be felt deeply when a close friend or relative has shared our secrets or lied about us. Judas, one of the 12 disciples, devised a plan and betrayed Jesus.
Have you ever felt abandoned? I think that many of us can admit to moments or situations in which we have, if nothing less, have felt completely alone with no support. In this Bible reading, Jesus was abandoned by those who were closest to Him, 2 of the 12 disciples, and then eventually all of them.
There are many difficult situations that we encounter in our lives, sometimes on a daily basis. Friends, and family members can let us down. We can even feel abandoned by God when we are suffering or our prayers seem to go unanswered. Remember – Jesus has gone through it all. He understands your situation and your feelings. And God does not abandon you. Turn to Him in prayer and know that your answer will be what He knows is best for you.
PRAY:
Jesus, You know. Heal my hurts. Grant my faith to believe, especially when facing my doubts. When it all overwhelms me, stir me to remember that You allowed darkness to overwhelm You, too. Help me to trust that You did that for me, so that I will never be alone. You are with me, even in the dark. Shine Your light, O Lord. Amen.
LIVE:
One of the first and most difficult steps can be calling the pain what it is. Guilt, shame, betrayal, abandonment, hate, oppression, anxiety. What pain seems swell more than the others? How does knowing a glimpse of what Jesus faced for you give you hope in your suffering?