JANUARY 29 - Betrayed But Not Broken
3-Year-Bible Reading: Matthew 26
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“Watch and pray that you may not enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.” — Matthew 26:41
“Then all the disciples left him and fled.” — Matthew 26:56b
“Then Peter remembered the saying of Jesus, ‘Before the rooster crows, you will deny me three times.’ And he went out and wept bitterly.” — Matthew 26:75
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Jesus knew what was coming. He saw betrayal in Judas’s kiss, fear in Peter’s eyes, and weakness in His closest friends who couldn’t stay awake to pray. Still, He chose to press on. In Matthew 26, we watch Jesus move through some of His darkest moments—not with panic, but with purpose. Even when people failed Him, He stayed faithful.
For young people today, this chapter speaks volumes. Whether it's pressure from friends, fear of rejection, or feeling let down by those we trust, we’re reminded that Jesus understands. He lived it. And He shows us how to respond—with prayer, with honesty, and with unwavering commitment to God’s will.
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THINK ABOUT IT
1. Jesus understands your pain: Have you ever felt betrayed or let down by someone close? Jesus knows that pain deeply. He invites you to bring that hurt to Him.
2. Your spirit is willing: Jesus didn’t shame the disciples for being weak—He encouraged them to pray. When you feel like you’re falling short, turn to Him instead of giving up.
3. Failure isn’t the end: Peter denied Jesus, yet Jesus still had a plan for him. Your worst moment doesn't cancel God's purpose for your life.
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BOTTOM LINE
Even when people fail us or we fail ourselves, Jesus remains faithful—and invites us to rise again with Him.
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PRAYER
Heavenly Father, thank You for showing us, through Jesus, how to stay strong even when life gets tough. Help me to stay close to You when I feel weak, afraid, or hurt by others. Remind me that You understand and never give up on me. Give me courage to follow You, even when it’s hard. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
