Betrayal

It happened again. Love came around to bite me in the butt. At least it felt like it.

You know the feeling, that horrible moment when you realize that you trusted someone only to find out you'd been duped. Fooled again by their lies and deceit. Manipulated. You played right into the hands of betrayal...again.

This time, well this time was not as harsh. This time I was able to recover within hours instead of days or even weeks. This time I remembered. I remembered that time...that beautiful time when God spoke to me...powerful words that wiped out the aftermath of betrayal.

I remember it so clearly. Sitting in the hot tub...soaking in the hot water, face wet with tears. I was railing at God, "How could I be so stupid? Why did You let me believe it? Why didn't You tell me it was all lies? I usually have discernment, where was it this time? When will I learn? I am just so angry with myself, and with You!!! I should have known better than to trust again! I feel like a fool..."

"Love is nothing to be ashamed of."

It was as clear as I have ever heard His voice...that voice that pierces my heart...now spoke to me so gently.

I wept more tears, but now they were different. No longer was I crying from shame. No longer did I feel so foolish or deceived. All anger was diffused. I felt the warmth of His love...bypassing the warmth of the spa.

I don't have to feel ashamed for believing the best about someone! That is exactly what love does! And love is who God is, and He is working love out in me...and in all humanity. And I get to be a part of that. I get to keep my heart open, and pour love upon everyone I meet...while He protects my heart from being completely broken when trampled upon...because I trust Him! Betrayal, where is your sting?

Are you feeling betrayed? Have you been lied to by someone you love? The wound of betrayal is a deep wound. Often our response is to fight back, or retreat. Either response is unproductive, really.

Don't close yourself off from love. Don't allow betrayal to win. Do you want to really get revenge on betrayal?

Stand tall in love! Don't cower, don't be ashamed, and don't be afraid to love again. Ever.

Stand in the power of these words:

Love is patient; love is kind. 

Love is nothing to be ashamed of.