BETRAYER OR PRAYER
- Key Verse
- "And they [disciples] prayed and said, ‘You, Lord, who know the hearts of all men, show which one of these two you have chosen to occupy this ministry and apostleship from which Judas turned aside to go to his own place” (Acts 1:24-25 NASB).
READ TODAY'S PASSAGE-
READ THE CHAPTER
Central Truth
“Careful little eyes what you see…”
Reflections
If someone point blank asked me, “Have you been faithful to your husband?” I’d nod and exhale, “Yes, miraculously.” I’d probably count off eights years of marriage on my fingers and survey how God changed me. Before I respected God, I harbored the philosophy that if I hadn’t found “Mr. Right,” then why bother staying with one wrong guy at a time? So, I dated like “Little Miss Judas Iscariot.”Each of us harbors potential to break trust. We betray a friend’s confidence through gossip. Or, for me lately, I fear betraying my role as mommy by overworking. And do I really want Disney and daycare replacing me?
We can be replaced. It’s curious that while Judas Iscariot’s leadership position was being replaced for betraying Christ, the disciples were “continually devoting themselves to prayer” (Acts 1:14, 20b). I wonder if the difference between the disciples’ devotion and Judas’ disloyalty wasn’t in their eyes?
Notice how the disciples had just “gazed intently into the sky” while Jesus rose into the clouds in front of them (Acts 1:9-11). They awed at Christ’s ascension, and then moved right into the Upper Room to pray. While just days before, Judas had his sights set a little lower—some quick coins in exchange for the Messiah’s location.
Ironically though, to betray is to be betrayed. And often it is our own eyes that betray us. I’ve found that movies can con me. If I observe Channing Tatum romance his leading lady or Robert Pattison profess his epic love for Bella Swan on the silver screen, somehow I find myself wondering if what Christ has given me is quite as epic? And BAM— an opening for disloyalty.
But if you and I will look up to the Ultimate Epic One, we will find reason to bow down. The Scriptures promise that Jesus is coming back for us the same way He left the disciples—in the clouds (Acts 1:11). And when we loiter in prayer with an epic Hero like that, we change. He changes a betrayer into a devoted disciple, spouse, friend, employee, and parent.
Discussion Questions
1. Does the One who is coming back in the clouds, have your attention?2. How would you feel if someone you were speaking with wouldn’t look you in the eyes?
3. When is the last time you’ve loitered with the Lord in prayer?
4. Where might your eyes betray you, lately?
5. Download Casting Crowns song “Slow Fade” off iTunes.
Comments
The views expressed under “Comments” are solely
those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of .
david shaw
January 4, 2010 07:22 AM
WOW...! I'm speachless and very thankful that I read this today...! I was just on my knees talking to God about my upcoming week and my on and off desires to stay devoted to Him and BAM...! along comes your devotion. It is sooooo what I needed to read. God bless you for listening to Him as He helped you pen those words. Awesome! Thanks!
Mike Heinz
January 4, 2010 08:31 AM
Thanks for your devo. The example about "overworking...forsaking role as mommy" hit me as a dad. May God help us stay loyal to Him even when it is tough!
Gary Brandenburg
January 4, 2010 08:43 AM
Thanks for "keeping it real" Adrianne and for reminding me of the importance of living above "I" level. You're a great encourager.
Marcie Leal
January 4, 2010 09:05 AM
Great devotional Adrianne! Really enjoyed what you had to say. Thanks.
Michael Kirk John
January 4, 2010 09:15 AM
Dear Adrianne,Thank you for the reminder on being aware of the subtle deceptions and betrayals. Grateful for your devotion.
Roy Sanderson
January 4, 2010 09:55 AM
Adrianne, Great commnetary that really brought the scriptures to present day application and reminded me how seldom I put "me" second. Thanks.
John Arellano
January 4, 2010 11:52 AM
Adrianne, Thank you for the thought provoking devo. I was especially intrigued by your questions. I'm looking forward to listening to the song you've recommended. peace, jga
Becky
January 4, 2010 12:21 PM
Adrianne, your devotional was one more affirmation towards my goal to be "In in 2010." I want to be more purposeful in giving Jesus my attention instead of focusing on self. I never considered how easy it is to become a betrayer. Our focus becomes distorted with what seems important and demands our attention. BAM...we are betraying. The only thing that will matter when we get to Heaven, is what we have done to further the Kingdom! Thanks for reminding us that prayer is essential for change!!!!
Mary Lynn
January 4, 2010 08:36 PM
Adrianne...WOW...awesome devotional! Thanks for bringing home truth in such a profound way.
Angel2
January 4, 2010 08:40 PM
Beautiful, Shabby Mama. Solid truth and great application. The English teacher in me loved looking UP at Jesus as the true epic hero and romancer of our souls. Oh, P.S., I've seen you dancing in the parking lot with your girls. As a great friend of mine would say, "You're a rock star mama!"
Kevilyn
January 4, 2010 08:52 PM
Very good analogy.. Great writing!