A Testing of the Faith by Barbara Spencer

“ … Indeed, Satan has asked for you, that he may sift you as wheat.” Luke 22:31.

Blindsided, Ostracized, Humiliations, Betrayal are just some of the many experiences we encounter in life. While all have a devastating effect on us, Betrayal may be the most devastating, especially when it comes from one(s) who is a fellow Christian.

Betrayal is a violation of trust by someone close to us. Someone we never imagined would ever do such a horrifying thing. The pain of Betrayal can be so intense that it can threaten to shake the very foundation of our Faith. Ephesians 6:16.

Betrayal causes shock, anger, confusion and a shift in our conduct. It can send self-esteem spiraling down into oblivion. It evokes feelings of grief, like losing a loved one(s) –which is exactly what has happened. Proverbs 3:5-6.

But while lying there (in oblivion), our blank minds recall that Jesus experienced Betrayal, and that there is much to learn (on both sides) from this horrific experience, so we begin the struggle to overcome. We also learn that it is futile to try to determine what led up to the Betrayal. Romans 8:28. We realize that if we can find a way to forgive and let go, then we can
move forward. Matthew 6:14.

Even though Satan desires to sift us as wheat, Jesus has said:
“But I have prayed for you; that your faith should not fail; and when you have returned to Me strengthen your brethren.” Luke 22:32.

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In the fields of life, we stand so tall,
Yet trials come, and we may fall.
Sifted as wheat, through winds we sway,
Our strength is tested, day by day…
(Part of a poem by Author unknown)

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The only way we can stand is on our knees.