DAY 22
Reading: Nehemiah 6, Nehemiah 7
Betrayal - “Tobiah sent letters to frighten me.” (Nehemiah 6:19)
Reflection: Tobiah’s opposition couldn’t have been much of a surprise to Nehemiah. However, the fact that many of Nehemiah’s own people supported Tobiah and fueled the fire against Nehemiah had to be devastating. It’s the betrayal from within that challenges our resilience more than the external attack of enemies. Unfortunately, a lack of unity and the presence of betrayal is a reality for those who follow Christ who was betrayed not only by Judas, but pretty much all of his own disciples. It can knock the wind out of you but its a pivotal moment in which God calls you even closer to Himself as your safe refuge. If bitterness sets in, you’re done for. But if betrayal becomes the reason you cling in confidence to the trustworthiness of God, it will deepen your trust.
Prayer: “Abba, I’ve been hurt by lots of people in this world but the ones that hurt the worst are the betrayals by those I trusted and through were on my side. May the grace you have given me be so vibrant that it frees me from bitterness and leads me to cling to you.”
Betrayal - “Tobiah sent letters to frighten me.” (Nehemiah 6:19)
Reflection: Tobiah’s opposition couldn’t have been much of a surprise to Nehemiah. However, the fact that many of Nehemiah’s own people supported Tobiah and fueled the fire against Nehemiah had to be devastating. It’s the betrayal from within that challenges our resilience more than the external attack of enemies. Unfortunately, a lack of unity and the presence of betrayal is a reality for those who follow Christ who was betrayed not only by Judas, but pretty much all of his own disciples. It can knock the wind out of you but its a pivotal moment in which God calls you even closer to Himself as your safe refuge. If bitterness sets in, you’re done for. But if betrayal becomes the reason you cling in confidence to the trustworthiness of God, it will deepen your trust.
Prayer: “Abba, I’ve been hurt by lots of people in this world but the ones that hurt the worst are the betrayals by those I trusted and through were on my side. May the grace you have given me be so vibrant that it frees me from bitterness and leads me to cling to you.”