“Where can I go from your spirit? Or where can I flee from your presence? If I ascend to heaven, you are there; if I make my bed in Sheol, you are there. If I take the wings of morning and settle at the farthest limits of the sea, even there your hand shall lead me, and your right hand shall hold me fast.” (Psalm 139:7-10)
The pain of betrayal is particularly hard to understand. It’s the opposite of what you thought was true. You thought someone was your friend. You believed promises wouldn’t be broken. You expected trust to be reciprocated. Betrayal leaves us reeling, wondering what is real.
People can and will betray us. The scriptures are full of stories of broken promises, abandonment, lying, disrespect, and unfairness. Betrayal has residual effects-we become more cautious, less open-hearted, hesitant to trust. In these moments, we can lean into the comfort of our God provides. No matter where we go, no matter what happens to us, our God is present and our Creator’s faithfulness steadfast and ever present. We can trust God’s promises; this love will never turn on us.
Examine: Sit with a memory of betrayal. Breathe. Notice thoughts and feelings that arise. Notice your body’s response.
Imagine: Imagine the earth is shaking all around you. God is with you, holding your hand, guiding you down a steady path. Feel the firm grip of God’s hand in yours. Feel the solid ground beneath your feet. Allow yourself to relax into and trust God’s faithful support.
Pray: Free me from pain, O God, so I can live with healing.
