It is no surprise when a person unknown to us is the betrayer, but when it is a brother or sister in Christ the hurt is unexpected, surprising, and disappointing. Christians know being betrayed is how things happen in a world full of unbelievers, but getting stabbed in the back by another believer tends to upset the apple cart more than usual. Paul wrote about people who caused him great harm…

Alexander the coppersmith did me great harm; the Lord will repay him according to his deeds. Beware of him yourself, for he strongly opposed our message. At my first defense no one came to stand by me, but all deserted me. May it not be charged against them! But the Lord stood by me and strengthened me, so that through me the message might be fully proclaimed and all the Gentiles might hear it. So I was rescued from the lion’s mouth. The Lord will rescue me from every evil deed and bring me safely into his heavenly kingdom. To him be the glory forever and ever. Amen. (2 Tim 4:14-18)

This is a wonderful passage from which God provides several comforts. Without going into great detail, note a few things worth a significant time of rumination. Take these thoughts and work them into your own heart when you are hurt by betrayal. Ask God to help you embrace Him and fill you with the Spirit so as to rest in Him based on His truth.

Paul left vengeance and revenge in God’s hands…

Paul warned others about those who cause trouble…

Even when deserted by everyone, Paul didn’t hold a grudge…

Paul’s strength came from Christ, not people…

Paul recognized having to rely on Christ alone was best for The Gospel…

Paul was confident of God rescuing him defined as entering heaven…

Therefore Paul praised God for how these situations (Betrayal) were played out by God.

Even though being betrayed is hurtful, as Christians we are to model forgiveness, grace, mercy, and reconciliation (When possible).