Where is this truth more evident in scripture than in the lives of the disciples and Jesus?

Peter is rebuked when he was in opposition after Jesus told them He must be crucified.  It was a harsh and necessary rebuke:

But He turned and said to Peter, “Get behind Me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to Me; for you are not setting your mind on God’s interests, but man’s.” (Matt 16:23 NASB)

Faithful were those wounds that Jesus inflicted on Peter.  They were for Peter’s benefit. Each part of the wound was meant for good.

On the contrary how deceitful a thing it was for Judas to betray our Lord with none other than a kiss to identify Him for His arrest!  Notice Jesus response:

“Immediately Judas went to Jesus and said, “Hail, Rabbi!” and kissed Him. And Jesus said to him, “Friend, do what you have come for.” Then they came and laid hands on Jesus and seized Him.” 

(‭‭Matt 26:49-50‬ ‭NASB‬‬)

Two things here that could stir our emotions and desire for justice.

1) He calls him “Friend”

2) He seems unshaken by the fact that He is about to be arrested.

It is clear what is about to happen and Jesus, having the Holy Spirit, remains calm, trusting in the sovereignty of His Father. How powerful is that?  I have certainly been betrayed my fair share of times.   I’m sad to say my response at times has been one of seeking revenge and justice.  I’m reminded here by our Lord’s example that we need not worry or be anxious about justice or anything for that matter. For Our God is sovereign even in the midst of deceit.

Reflection

How easily are you shaken when someone deceives you?  We could use this proverb as grounds to possibly remove a few friends and try to avoid these deceivers, but something tells me you can’t avoid them completely.  Praise God today that nothing is outside the realm of His sovereignty!  We have no need to get worked up and anxious. We have the sovereign Lord in command over every second of our eternity.

Prayer

Father we confess to you we are prone to retaliation and wrath.   Guide our hearts to a place of trust. For you have said vengeance is yours.  Let us know, live, and speak the truth of your sovereignty each and every moment of today.  May the peace that passes all understanding guard our hearts in Christ Jesus right now, in His Name, Amen!

@brianfriedl

#sovereignoverdeceivers #woundsofafriendarewelcome

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