I've been "stabbed in the back" before. It's not a nice feeling. It leaves a wake of hurt, broken trust, anger, and disappointment. It puts friendships into question, alliances at risk, and defenses on high alert. You've no doubt heard the term, "fool me once shame on you, fool me twice, shame on me." Most of us are very careful after the first time.
Yet as Christians we are supposed to be trusting, gracious, and forgiving. Very difficult things to be when you've been wronged. But that's exactly what Jesus did, how he responded, how he lived. He never rolled over, but stood his ground. While he turned his other cheek, he never laid down and was walked upon. And in his journey to the cross, he continued to look those who condemned him right in the eye! They knew who were the true guilty ones. We, as Christians, need to learn to tap into this strength of character, of faith, of loyalty to a greater truth, even in the face of betrayers.
That was David's character and it needs to be ours! David was loyal almost to a fault. He respected the office of King and though Saul didn't earn respect as king, David gave it anyway, even when he had to continue running for his life. Given the opportunity, Saul would have literally stabbed David in the back, but David refused to retaliate or to defend himself with force. Rather, he showed grace under fire, forgiveness to one who didn't deserve it, a second (third, fourth, fifth...)chance to one who would betray it, in the name of loyalty to the office and ultimately to God.
While we may not be able to change our circumstances or stop betrayals that happen, we can choose how we handle such situations. We can react and respond on the same level as those acting inappropriately or we can turn and face these situations with grace and love.
Besides, backstabbing is a sign of weakness of the foolish, while facing betrayers with grace and love is a sign of wisdom, strength and faith.
Thank you, Jesus, for giving us your Spirit for circumstances like this and your example for grace under fire and strength in the midst of great difficulty.
Stay true to Christ and he will give you strength in all matters.
Peace ><>
pc
2 comments:
Christ calls us to live in harmony and unity with our Brothers and Sisters, being the Body of Christ.
When we backstab someone, we do it directly to Christ. As PC noted, Christ lived by one true standard and never faltered. Let us be like Christ in all that we do, escpecially to each other.
Just when I needed it you came through with a blog that hit home! You are a blessing that God has given this church! Thank you!
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