Happy Friday! Today, we will continue where we left off yesterday in Matthew chapter 26 – the betrayal. Jesus knew who would betray him.  Enjoy today’s devotion and the long holiday weekend.

BIBLE VERSE – Matthew 26:23-25 NLT
²³ He replied, “One of you who has just eaten from this bowl with me will betray me. ²⁴ For the Son of Man must die, as the Scriptures declared long ago. But how terrible it will be for the one who betrays him. It would be far better for that man if he had never been born!”

²⁵ Judas, the one who would betray him, also asked, “Rabbi, am I the one?”

And Jesus told him, “You have said it.”

REFLECTION
The betrayal was bittersweet. We now know that it was that moment that led to Jesus’ death on the cross. It was a painful reality, however I think it was more disheartening knowing that Judas Iscariot was a disciple, one who walked and talked with Jesus. He ate with Jesus and was considered a friend.

Often we are dismayed by believers who appear to be close to God, praising the name of Jesus,  but have fallen into sin (one or another). There are also times when we pour out our hearts and expose intimate details and are betrayed by the very people we trusted as sisters and brothers in faith. While we can’t change the people who have betrayed us or have lost our trust, we can draw near to God and trust He knows all about it. We don’t need to harbor anger or build up walls that prevent us from living in the fullness of Christ Jesus, we only need to trust His plan and his ability to heal us. While it is easier said than done, sisters and brothers, for us it may seem impossible, but all things are possible through Christ Jesus. Pray about it and give the Lord permission to begin working in your heart and mind.

Questions

• What situation do you need to leave in the capable hands of God? __________

• Who do you need to forgive today and turn them over to God? __________

• How will you allow God to use your pain for His glory? __________

PRAYER
Father God, we thank you for another day. Lord, many people did not make it through the night, but you allowed us to be here for a reason. Lord, whatever that reason is help us to find peace and joy in the midst of it all. Lord, comfort our hearts and strengthen our souls as we continue on this journey. Lord, lead and guide us as we draw near to you. Lord, forgive us for anger, bitterness and resentment that we held against others. Heal us from our past hurts, betrayals and the people we have betrayed. Lord, touch us and change us to be more like you in our speech and in our actions. Lord, protect us from the wicked who attempt or have preyed upon our kindness. Lord, give us discernment to know when to walk away or remove ourselves from situations that are not of you. Lord, we pray for those who are grieving the loss of a loved one. Lord, comfort them. Lord, we pray for those who are battling cancer and ask that you heal and comfort them. Lord, we pray for all those in need of prayer today. Lord, your word says you will never leave us or forsake us. Lord, you know them, you know their hearts and their needs. Lord, hear their prayers and answer them  Lord, keep us and change us. In Jesus name, amen.

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Sisters and brothers we are looking for new board members to serve a two year term. This is an important phase for our non-profit and we are excited for the next steps. If you are interested, please send an email to: contactus@maryewhiteministries.com

We are also seeking volunteers for our retreat, which will be in November.

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SAVE-THE-DATE
Our Next Women’s Retreat is
Saturday, November 5, 2022.
Stay tuned for more details.

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PRAYER REQUEST
Do you have a prayer request? We would love to pray for you. Send your prayer request to: contactus@maryewhiteministries.com

Bible Reference: http://biblegateway.com

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