Rejected Savior, Faithful Friend

"He was despised and rejected by men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief."
Isaiah 53:3 (NIV)

What if the One who understands your deepest betrayal is also the One who will never betray you?

I know from personal experience that wounds from friends cut deeper than wounds from enemies. The pain is often unexpected and can fester much longer. You may know the feeling of being picked last on the playground, abandoned by a spouse, or ignored by someone you trusted. The deeper the relationship, the deeper the pain.

But today’s verse brings lasting comfort. Jesus was also betrayed and rejected. Two of His twelve disciples turned their backs on Him. 

Judas betrayed Jesus for money. Imagine how that kiss from Judas broke Jesus' heart. 

Peter denied even knowing Him three times out of fear. His own people yelled, "Crucify Him!" 

And on the cross, God poured out His wrath for your sins on His Son. No one in history has ever been rejected like Jesus.

Isaiah says Jesus was "despised and rejected by men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief." He gets your pain because He lived it.

When betrayal happens, we’re tempted to pull back, stop trusting, or let bitterness take root. But Jesus responds differently. He responds with grace and forgiveness.

Maybe someone's betrayal replays in your mind. God’s Word encourages you that Jesus was rejected for you. He can help you forgive the way He has forgiven you.

Remember today’s opening question: What if the One who understands your deepest betrayal will never betray you? Here's your answer. Jesus, the most rejected person in history, is your most faithful friend. He's felt your exact pain. 

And unlike everyone else who's hurt you, He will never abandon you. You can trust Him completely.

Prayer: Jesus, I know that You are were despised and rejected. And I’ve been guilty of reacting you that way. But You're the most faithful friend I'll ever know. Thank you for forgiving me when I have rejected You. Give me the strength to love and forgive others as You have loved me. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.