Have you ever felt this way? Did you recall the phrase that… the only ones that shoot their wounded are Christians… and then apply that to yourself? If you are active in your church then this reality can happen all too easily – whether by perception or fact. But what do you do when you feel betrayed? How can you continue to function in your church?
Hurt feelings are one thing but betrayal goes far beyond that. Betrayal is a repudiation of everything you believe, everything you stand for. Betrayal makes you naked before everyone, including yourself and that is difficult to excuse/forgive. Then you face the problem of what you do, what you say.
The first question you need to ask before getting into the emotion is – was this the church the Lord planted you in or one you chose? And, has that assignment changed? However you were planted, the assignment has to be the focus. So, am I holding on because the church I’m in also gives me an identity? My experience though is that if the assignment has changed/is changing then I have already begun being prepared for this.
If you don’t feel your work in your church is finished, then the dynamics change. The one thing you need to remember is that maybe your part is finished even if the work hasn’t. Regardless, what do you think you can accomplish by digging in your heels? Could the way you depart be a witness for someone else?
When betrayal is the source then it is critical to not lash out at others…. and difficult. But it is important not to become a stumbling stone for someone else. And no, I’m not suggesting that you ignore your feelings or deny them. As hard as it may be you need to look at the situation and decide if any ‘blame’ is attached to you. You need to have ‘clean hands before the Lord’. If you do, if you can say that – then you can stand approved.
