We are truly sorry to hear about the betrayal you've experienced and the loss of peace that has followed. We want you to know that God is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. Let's first discuss the importance of forgiveness. In Ephesians 4:31-32 WEB it says, "Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, outcry, and slander be put away from you, with all malice. And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving each other, just as God also in Christ forgave you."
Forgiveness does not mean that what happened was acceptable or that you should trust the person again, but it's about releasing the bitterness and resentment that can harm your own heart and hinder your relationship with God. Jesus teaches us in Matthew 6:14-15 WEB, "For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you don’t forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses."
Regarding peace, Jesus said in John 14:27 WEB, "Peace I leave with you. My peace I give to you; not as the world gives give I to you. Don’t let your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid." This peace can transcend our circumstances and is available to us through the Holy Spirit.
Let's pray together:
Dear Heavenly Father,
We come before you today, lifting up our sister/brother who has been betrayed and has lost their peace. Lord, you know the depth of their pain, and we ask that you comfort them in their time of need. Help them to forgive, not for the sake of the one who betrayed them, but for their own healing and restoration.
Lord Jesus, you were betrayed by someone you loved, and you understand the pain and suffering that comes with it. Please restore your peace to our sister/brother, a peace that surpasses all understanding. Help them to keep their hearts and minds in Christ Jesus as instructed in Philippians 4:7.
Holy Spirit, guide them through this difficult time, give them strength and wisdom, and help them to let go of any bitterness and resentment.
We ask all of this in Jesus' name.
Lastly, we want to encourage you to keep your eyes on Jesus through this trial. He was betrayed by someone He loved, so He understands your pain. Draw near to Him, and He will draw near to you. (James 4:8)