In Psalm 55, the psalmist cries out to God amid deep distress, appealing to God to hear his prayer and to answer his request. Threatened by enemies who want to harm him, and overwhelmed with fear, he longs to escape—to flee like a dove to a place of rest far from the storm. But more painful than any outside threat is the betrayal from someone he once called a close companion.

The psalmist turns his lament toward this traitor: “But it is you…” (verse 13). The pain is personal and raw. This was not a stranger, but a trusted friend—one with whom he had shared fellowship, worshipped in the house of God (within God’s house, verse 14), and walked in agreement. That kind of betrayal cuts the deepest because it strikes not only at the heart but also at the soul.

The betrayer’s words were “smooth as butter,” yet war was in his heart (verse 21). He violated not just friendship but also covenant—a sacred trust. However, the psalmist does not collapse into despair. Though wounded and weary in his soul, he brings his sorrow continually to God with unwavering confidence. “Evening and morning and at noon,” he cries out—and knows God hears (verse 17).

The God of the psalmist is not far off or unfeeling. He is the God who is enthroned from of old, unchanging, faithful, and just. Yet He knows betrayal intimately.

Think of Jesus. He was betrayed by Judas, one of His twelve, his closest disciples. He was abandoned by His closest friends in His hour of greatest need, they who ran away when he was arrested. He understands what it means to be forsaken by those who once professed love, denied thrice by one of his closest disciples. And yet, Jesus entrusted Himself fully to the Father, confident in the One who judges justly.

If you are walking through a season of betrayal or rejection—especially from those you once called friend—know this: God sees. God hears. God understands. And God will sustain you. You are not alone.

Cry out to Him, as the psalmist did. Pour out your complaint. Cast your burden on the Lord, and He will sustain you (verse 22). He is the One who keeps covenant, even when others break theirs.

If you are in a season of comfort, would you lift up those who are not? Pray for those who are hurting and doubting themselves because of betrayal and gaslighting. Pray that they would not lose heart, that their identity would be rooted not in the words of people but in the Word of God. And ask God to heal the brokenhearted—just as He has promised to do.

In all things, trust in Jesus—faithful, just, and good. He will never leave nor forsake you.

Prayer:

Faithful God, You are the One who hears our cries and sees our tears. When we are betrayed by those we love, when the pain cuts deep, help us to turn to You and not away from You. Help us all to trust in Your goodness and unchanging love. In Jesus’ victorious name we pray, Amen.