LIVING WORD DEVOTIONAL
By Pastor Mensa Otabil

Monday 30th March 2026

JUDAS’ BETRAYAL

Scripture Reading: Matthew 26:1-25

Then one of the twelve, called Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests 15 and said, "What are you willing to give me if I deliver Him to you?" And they counted out to him thirty pieces of silver. 16 So from that time he sought opportunity to betray Him. Matthew 26:14-16

To have someone you trust and consider a good friend stab you in the back is a most painful experience. Jesus experienced a painful betrayal by a close friend – Judas. It was a betrayal that led to His crucifixion.

Jesus had chosen Judas to be a disciple. He was a part of the close team of people who knew about the mission, motives and movements of Christ. He was also an advocate who represented Christ and took His message throughout the land. Taking advantage of his special position, Judas sold out the Lord to his chief enemies and collected payment for his action. 

We can find many similarities between Judas and those who betray us. They may have been our advocates or companions; we may have helped them out and given of ourselves for their benefit. Then for some reason, they turn on us and sell us out in a very painful manner.

The most difficult thing about betrayal is that the betrayer is generally a trusted friend. If the person were an outsider, their action would not carry such deep inner pain. Because the Lord suffered betrayal, He can strengthen us when our friends turn on us and deliver us to those who seek our destruction.

The end of those who betray others is predictably sad. In the end, the gain Judas had sought left him with nothing but bitterness and pain. Feeling guilty about his actions, he committed suicide in a futile attempt to end his mental torment.

God can use all the events of life including betrayals for His purposes. As He did in the case of Judas’ betrayal of our Lord, He can take the painful outcomes of such an act and make it work together for our good. Judas’ end is a lesson that it does not pay to betray a friend.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, help me to remain true and faithful to those who trust me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.