Is It Possible to Overcome Betrayal?

A transgression occurs when a code of conduct has been violated or dishonored. A typical response is disbelief, especially in a close, trusting relationship such as a marriage or friendship. Anger in most instances follows disbelief when a transgression is intended to hurt and do damage.

Middle schoolers are notorious for instantly changing friendships and portraying a previous friend in the worst way. An offense that activates revenge doesn’t always include physical violence but can include words loaded with pain that can endure for a lifetime.

Vengeful behavior is common in divorce proceedings or in situations where betrayal made divorce imminent. The most difficult response to follow is Proverbs 19:11: “A wise person refrains from anger and overlooks insults.” If you’re guilty of betrayal, do what is right and thoroughly confess, which demonstrates humility. Then sincerely apologize.  

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Oh, come back to God. Live by the principles of love and justice, and always be expecting much from him, your God.

~Hosea 12:6 The Living Bible 

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Open the Door to Forgiveness

Assuming responsibility for one's actions is an example of maturity and a major component for making forgiveness possible. The moment responsibility is assumed for hurtful behavior, blaming others ceases to be a viable option. An essential component for extending forgiveness is seeing inherent value and worth in the person guilty of inflicting pain and suffering.

The basic reason for feeling empathy is that it opens the door to forgiveness. Just as you are worthy of forgiveness, being willing to see others as worthy of forgiveness is a necessity for letting go of anger and the desire for revenge. Forgiveness has to be unconditional, with no strings attached.

It's apparent everyone is not at this level of  maturity. However, wounded people need time to work through their pain and emotional damage until they are ready. God's love is patient and kind. He will never push you beyond your capabilities. Yet when you’re ready, God will give you strength and grace to build the bridge to freedom and forgiveness.  

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The Lord is merciful! He is kind and patient, and his love never fails. The Lord won’t always be angry and point out our sins; he doesn’t punish us as our sins deserve.

~Psalm 103:8-10 Contemporary English Version

Accept life, and be most patient and tolerant with one another, always ready to forgive if you have a difference with anyone. Forgive as freely as the Lord has forgiven you. And above everything else, be truly loving, for love binds all the virtues together in perfection.

~Colossians 3:13-14 Phillips – The New Testament in Modern English