The relative who stabs you in the back; the close confidant who discloses the contents of a private conversation about another colleague to that very person; the business relationship that failed because one of the partners was embezzling their own company’s funds. What do we call these situations? Tragic? Despicable?
It’s called life.
I have been involved in each of the three situations. It does not matter how many of these experiences I have endured, it does not get any easier. We have all been hurt by others. How do we deal with life? Some turn to alcohol or drugs, others sublimate their feelings and bury themselves in work or other activities. Still others, like myself, turn to a trusted friend for comfort and advice. But what does one do when it is the same trusted friend who has turned against you?
In each of the above cited situations, I first unloaded my hurt feelings onto my wife who respectfully listened. While she is my soulmate and I value her opinion and advice, I know she has enough problems of her own and I always feel that I am overburdening her with my troubles. Why didn’t I first take my problems to God? He undoubtedly understands my pain and betrayal but how do I take the problems to Him? Do I speak to Him in whispered tones? Do I approach Him with silent prayer? Do I even need to take it to Him since He knows all things? I can take comfort from the great saints of the Bible who faced similar travails.
Now it is not an enemy who insults me—otherwise I could bear it; it is not a foe who rises up against me—otherwise I could hide from him. But it is you, a man who is my peer, my companion and good friend! We used to have close fellowship; we walked with the crowd into the house of God.
Psalms 55:12-14 (CSB)
When David wrote this psalm, he was hurting and plaintively cried out to God. As he described the relationship, we learn that he was betrayed by a close friend, with whom he even worshipped together with God. Did David consult with his wives? Did he speak to his other friends? The Bible does not tell us this but it does record his moving words and actions when he took the issue before God. David did not hide his feelings from God and neither should I. There have literally been times when I have yelled out in frustration and anguish. Is this wrong? God gives us the answer a few verses later.
But I call to God, and the LORD will save me. I complain and groan morning, noon, and night, and he hears my voice. Though many are against me, he will redeem me from my battle unharmed.
Psalms 55:16-18 (CSB)
How should I take the problems of my life to God? I should take it to Him the same way David did. I should be honest and freely allow my emotions to be expressed. I may complain and groan, but I do not cry out in defeat, exasperated by my situation. I shout in triumph, confident that He will accomplish what He promises. He sealed His promise to me by sacrificing His Son, Jesus Christ. God will redeem me and protect me if I place my faith and trust in Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior.
Praise God!
Love and trust in the Lord; seek His will in your life.
The Bereans Blog 