What steps can we take to forgive those who betray us, as Jesus did? Facing the Kiss of Betrayal “Going directly to Jesus, he said, ‘Rabbi!’ and kissed Him.” (Mark 14:45) The Bible records Judas’s greeting as a real, historical moment—an act of calculated treachery delivered with outward affection. Because God’s Word is true and literal, we can trust every detail and draw timeless guidance for our own hurts. Looking to Jesus First - He recognized the betrayal but stayed surrendered to the Father’s plan (Mark 14:42–46). - He called Judas “friend” (Matthew 26:50), choosing gracious words in the moment of offense. - On the cross He prayed, “Father, forgive them” (Luke 23:34), extending pardon before repentance was ever sought. Practical Steps Toward Forgiveness 1. Acknowledge the wound honestly • God never asks us to pretend it didn’t hurt (Psalm 55:12-14). 2. Bring the pain into God’s presence • Like Jesus in Gethsemane, pour out your anguish to the Father (Mark 14:34-36). 3. Remember God’s justice • “Vengeance is Mine; I will repay” (Romans 12:19). Release the need to settle the score. 4. Decide to forgive—an act of obedience, not emotion • “Forgive, as the Lord forgave you” (Colossians 3:13). 5. Speak blessing instead of bitterness • “Bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you” (Luke 6:28). 6. Do good when possible • “If your enemy is hungry, feed him” (Romans 12:20-21). 7. Keep forgiving as often as it resurfaces • Jesus set the standard at “seventy times seven” (Matthew 18:21-22). Guarding the Heart Without Growing Bitter - Replace rehearsed grievances with rehearsed grace (Ephesians 4:31-32). - Stay accountable—share the struggle with a mature believer (Hebrews 10:24-25). - Saturate your mind with truth; meditate on Christ’s example (1 Peter 2:23). - Watch for roots of bitterness and uproot them quickly (Hebrews 12:15). Living the Gospel of Grace Forgiveness is not denying justice; it is entrusting justice to God. By choosing the path Jesus walked—acknowledging hurt, surrendering it to the Father, and extending grace—we mirror the gospel we’ve received. In His strength, the kiss of betrayal becomes an opportunity to showcase the triumph of divine love over human sin. |
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