Betrayal Trauma

…Jesus was troubled in spirit….

John 13:21

The reality of betrayal grabs my heart, and I ache for others who also experience it. Jesus knew betrayal and understands its impact. Judas, one of His twelve disciples, betrayed Him. The Apostle John noticed Jesus’ response when Judas left to betray Him to the religious leaders. John recorded that Jesus was troubled in spirit (John 14:21).

I never considered that I had been betrayed until learning that betrayal is a key component of narcissistic abuse. Betrayal encompasses more than pornography or sexual infidelity. It also includes such things as not showing up in the relationship, not being emotionally present, and not following through with promises made in the early days of our relationship.

Betrayal also causes an identifiable psychological trauma, Betrayal Trauma*. Identifying Betrayal Trauma as a specific type of wounding helps me sift and sort the components of my troubled heart. This emotionally healing work has required discernment, vulnerable reflection, knowledge, and an emotionally safe person to listen as I fumble for words.

Jesus faithfully journeys with me as I identify each betrayal wound, grieve over it, then entrust it to His healing care.

Father, thank You that Jesus understands betrayal and gently guides me as I identify each wound. Thank You for providing a safe place to release them—into the tender, compassionate care of Your Son, Jesus. It is in His name I pray, amen.

*Dr. Jennifer Freyd, 1996, 2008, Betrayal Trauma Theory.

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