A Daily Purpose

Bible Study & Devotional 239

written by: Torrie Slaughter

Guiding Scripture: Psalm 41:9  ‘Even my close friend, someone I trusted, one who shared my bread, has turned against me. ‘ 

🔴I Would Never

Can you imagine the incredible pain of a close friend betraying your trust? Or worse yet, being abandoned at a crucial time during sickness? Let’s face it, recovering from illness or grief leaves one feeling vulnerable. 

That is one theme running throughout today’s scriptures. From Job, the faithful servant, to the Apostle Paul we can see how trust, loyalty, truth, and honesty play a huge role in the cycle of life.  

Hurt Hides Truth

I’ve been on both sides of trust: loyal to a fault and a discouraging disappointment. I’m not sure which hurt worse, the breaking of my heart or the Holy Spirit revealing my errors. In both cases, I learned valuable lessons:

1. God remains faithful even when I betray His command to love.
2. God remains faithful even when I am loyal to His purpose.

The One constant we find hope, is in Christ Jesus.

I could tell stories and stand as a witness to the many times the Holy Spirit has corrected my behavior over the years. I turned my back on the helpless and then held my hand up to God, asking for His blessings. Enough was enough; the adversary tried to steal, kill, and destroy the treasure God placed within me. But finally, I accepted and received wisdom through the Holy Spirit to stop pursuing selfish desires.

Balanced Enlightenment

When our loyal friends abandon us or betray our trust, reflect. While we may not have ‘ever done that,’ our words may show otherwise. Seeking comfort in God’s Word is the best source to gain understanding. Seeking wisdom in God’s Word to be corrected is the mark of spiritual maturity. 

As you read today, think about both perspectives. Invite the Holy Spirit in to reveal how you’ve been victimized and who you have vilified. If we continue to approach the Word of God from the point of suffering, we will not see the incredible sacrifices others have made because of our attitudes. 

Prayer: Lord, please have mercy on me and heal our relationship. I know I have sinned against you. I want to follow in your ways and remain a person of integrity. You, Lord, are worthy to be praised set; me in your presence forever. Amen. (Psalm 41:4,12-13)

🔴 The Bible In A Year Daily Reading Plan

Friday, August 27, 2021

Job 23:1-27:23, 2 Corinthians 1:12-2:11, Psalm 41:1-13, Proverbs 22:5-6

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