Both words in this title have to do with betrayal. For those who have never felt the sting of betrayal, this is not for you. The rest of us must learn how to navigate the treacherous waters of deceit.
For the act of betrayal to reach the point of being treasonous, the one who carries it out does so with malice and forethought. They violate or break a bond, trust, or confidence, usually in secret, while maintaining the pretense of an allegiance to the one being betrayed. Using their position of trust, to gain access to intelligence, location, and/or tactics, to give over to an enemy. Not a meager unfaithful act, but one without meaning, that causes psychological conflict between individuals or organizations. Acting in a treacherous style of secret disloyalty, while violating all codes of ethics and decency. Not realizing the lasting trauma caused to all attachment relationships, both involved and concerned. They are like fools who trust in themselves. (Proverbs 28:26)
The betrayed often respond by pulling away, but such a response is not always feasible, depending upon the bond that has been broken. For example, family bonds that exist complete with emotional dependencies, not taken into consideration by the offender. Our ability to be open and vulnerable with others is greatly impacted.
The one who uses God’s wisdom is safe. They acknowledge the trauma and do not bury it, in an attempt to avoid the difficult emotions caused by the exposure. In this way, the healing process can begin. They come to terms quickly with the horrible feelings that show up in the aftermath of betrayal. Turning to God for support, with an intense focus on repairing the breach, despite the likely consequences of acknowledging the betrayal.
The need for belonging and connection gives us the capacity to forgive. Those discovered, that have betrayed a loved one, are troubled with thoughts of guilt, shame, and regret. Hurting one that you love can damage your own self-worth and character. The outcome of deceitful work is brought to light by your own disgrace.
It may take a while, but the pain of betrayal eventually fades. With God, past pains no longer control our lives. All decisions come with blessing or cursing, chose wisely.
Proverbs 28:26
New International Version
26 “Those who trust in themselves are fools, but those who walk in wisdom are kept safe.”
Proverbs 28:26
King James Version
26 “He that trusteth in his own heart is a fool: but whoso walketh wisely, he shall be delivered.”
Proverbs 28:26
Living Bible
26 “A man is a fool to trust himself! But those who use God’s wisdom are safe.”
John 13:18
New International Version
Jesus Predicts His Betrayal
18 “ “I am not referring to all of you; I know those I have chosen. But this is to fulfill this passage of Scripture: ‘He who shared my bread has turned against me.”
John 13:18
King James Version
18 “I speak not of you all: I know whom I have chosen: but that the scripture may be fulfilled, He that eateth bread with me hath lifted up his heel against me.”
John 13:18
Living Bible
18 “ “I am not saying these things to all of you; I know so well each one of you I chose. The Scripture declares, ‘One who eats supper with me will betray me,’ and this will soon come true.”