The Judas in Your Life: 5 Days on BetrayalSample

Forgiving the Unforgivable

Devotion: Jesus called Judas "friend" in the moment of betrayal. Not "traitor." Not "enemy." Friend. Even as Judas handed Him over to be crucified, Jesus extended kindness.

That's the level of forgiveness Jesus calls us to. Not because betrayers deserve it, but because unforgiveness destroys us more than it punishes them.

Forgiveness doesn't mean:

• What they did was okay
• They don't need to face consequences
• You pretend it didn't happen
• You trust them immediately
• You restore the relationship

Forgiveness means:

• You release your right to revenge
• You stop rehearsing the offense
• You let God be the judge
• You free yourself from bitterness
• You choose healing over hatred

Unforgiveness is drinking poison and expecting your betrayer to die. It chains you to the past. Keeps the wound fresh. Gives your betrayer power over your present and future.

When you forgive, you're not letting them off the hook—you're taking yourself off the hook. You're no longer bound to their sin. You're free.

Jesus forgave Judas. Not because Judas repented (he didn't). Not because the betrayal didn't hurt (it did). But because forgiveness is who Jesus is.

And if we're His followers, forgiveness must be who we are—even when it feels impossible. Especially when it feels impossible.

You can't do it in your own strength. But the same Spirit who empowered Jesus to call Judas "friend" will empower you to forgive your betrayer.

Declaration: "I forgive my betrayer today. I release them to God. I will not be chained to bitterness. I am free. Forgiveness is my weapon against the past."

Prayer: "Jesus, I need Your help to forgive. I can't do this on my own. Give me Your heart. Help me release the offense. Break the chains of bitterness. Set me free through forgiveness. In Your name, amen."