How can we trust God's plan when facing betrayal or trials? Setting the Scene - The upper room is filled with warmth and worship, yet beneath the surface lies treachery. - Jesus has just instituted the Lord’s Supper. Moments later He reveals a devastating truth: one of the Twelve will betray Him. - In the tension, Luke 22:22 shines as a beacon of certainty. The Verse at the Heart “Indeed, the Son of Man will go as it has been determined, but woe to that man who betrays Him.” (Luke 22:22) God’s Sovereign Plan over Betrayal - “Will go as it has been determined” underscores an unbreakable decree from God. - The betrayal is real, the sin is real, yet the outcome is divinely arranged. - Scripture consistently affirms that human wickedness never thwarts God’s purposes: • Genesis 50:20 — “You intended evil against me, but God intended it for good…” • Acts 2:23 — Jesus was “handed over by God’s set plan and foreknowledge.” • Psalm 105:17-19 — Joseph is sold, yet God is sending him ahead. Reasons We Can Trust God’s Plan in Trials 1. He already knows the end. - Isaiah 46:10 — “I declare the end from the beginning.” 2. He uses even evil for ultimate good. - Romans 8:28 — “God works all things together for the good of those who love Him.” 3. He remains just. - “Woe to that man” (Luke 22:22) affirms personal accountability; God’s sovereignty never cancels justice. 4. He has proven His faithfulness through the cross. - If He orchestrated salvation through betrayal, He can weave redemptive outcomes from our trials. Practical Steps for Trusting in Trials - Rehearse His promises aloud (Psalm 42:5). - Remember past deliverances (1 Samuel 7:12). - Refuse bitterness; forgive as Christ forgave (Ephesians 4:32). - Remain obedient today; leave tomorrow’s outcomes with Him (Matthew 6:34). - Reach for fellowship; isolation magnifies fear (Hebrews 10:24-25). Promises to Hold Onto - 2 Timothy 1:12 — “I know whom I have believed.” - 1 Peter 4:19 — “Entrust your souls to a faithful Creator while continuing to do good.” - Hebrews 12:2-3 — Fix your eyes on Jesus, who “endured the cross, scorning its shame.” Final Encouragement The same God who authored redemption through the darkest betrayal stands over every hardship we face. Trust His determined plan; His character guarantees that no pain is wasted, no injustice overlooked, and no faithful step forgotten. |
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