Stability in Sorrow

But I am like a green olive tree in the house of God: I trust in the mercy of God for ever and ever. (Psa 52:8)

One of our greatest sorrows is the disappointment and pain of betrayal, especially from least expected people. These experiences cut deepest in our hearts, the true test of our carnality is not merely with regard to the things of the world but more so in relationship issues that result in resentment (1 Cor 3:3). Retaliation takes place if we are not rooted and grounded in love (Eph 3:17) where our Christian abundant life can be shallow and ebb away (Matt 13:6) in the face of relationship challenges. The carnality that exists in churches result in the heart wrenching break-up and division because of strong opinions, pride and self preservation among other relationship issues between brethren. Ministry is no longer viewed as the Lord’s but for man, hence it is man that gets hurt. There is a void of goodness and pleasantness of brethren dwelling in oneness (Psa 133:1). But how do we keep the unity in the bond of love when faced with betrayal?

The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way. Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down: for the LORD upholdeth him with his hand. (Psa 37:23-24)

Olive trees are robust in nature and able to withstand drought, disease and even fire. The secret is in the roots which are able to regenerate even if the above ground portion is destroyed. Some olive trees have been known to abide for centuries. The Christian’s strong root is the trust or reckless confidence beyond human eyes and understanding for it is the strength in the spirit of a man (Prov 18:14) ‘rooted and built up in Him, and stablished in the faith’ (Col 2:7). Trusting in God’s mercy is an eternal experience not just for the now; this brings a revelation ‘for surely there is a hereafter, and your hope will not be cut off’ (Prov 23:18)

The green of the olive tree speaks of Christian maturity that is a flourishing life ‘that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper’ (Psa 1:3). Even in the sorrow of betrayal there can bursting forth of praise and realization of God’s goodness (Psa 52:9) because there is utmost confidence as sons and daughters of God to return love for hatred, blessing for cursing, good for evil with the ability to pray for the other’s good.

Being rooted in Christ requires an uprooting of carnality and replaced with Godly spiritual roots. Then we will experience the joy of His salvation knowing that He was betrayed for us and forgiveness and love flowed freely and lovingly from the cross. The church, with this character of Christ we can freely and loving say ‘Father, forgive them…’ (Luke 23:34) in the midst of brutal betrayal.