Remaining Vulnerable

12For it is not an enemy who reproaches me,
Then I could bear it;
Nor is it one who hates me who has exalted himself against me,
Then I could hide myself from him.
13But it is you, a man my equal,
My companion and my familiar friend;
14We who had sweet fellowship together
Walked in the house of God in the throng.
15Let death come deceitfully upon them;
Let them go down alive to Sheol,
For evil is in their dwelling, in their midst.
16As for me, I shall call upon God,
And the LORD will save me.

Psalm 55:12-16

Often it's the people closest to us that hurt us the most. It's not that people seek out these opportunities but rather we let our guard down and don't see the need to question every single move they make; we trust them... sometimes foolishly.

In this passage, the psalmist is expressing his hurt. He explains that if it were an enemy he would've been able to see it coming and prepared accordingly. But this wasn't an enemy, this was someone close to him, a companion that he fellowshipped with.

So what's the lesson here, don't trust anyone? I don't think so. I think we're taught to first trust God with all our heart but to use discernment when trusting others, even those closest to you.

I've had people closest to be betray my trust. It makes you bitter and very closed up. How could I have used God's discernment there? I didn't know Jesus back then but looking back how could I have seen it coming? There's a lot of things I could've done differently that lead up to it but I could've just been more aware of my surroundings. Everything that happens in my life needs to be brought to God's throne, checking according to His will and Spirit. I know there are things intentionally concealed that I cannot control... I just need to trust in God's provisions.

Father God, thank You for these moments that remind me that I'm just me, a small speck on Your radar. Help me to never become bitter or have a hardened heart. If I'm struck on my face I choose to give my other cheek. Trusting You is enough. Amen!