What do I do when friends let me down? It is only a matter of time, and people will let you down because of our sinful nature. People are selfish, including each of us, and we often put our needs above others. The people you depend on, such as friends, family, and co-workers, may at times disappoint you. Feeling disappointed is normal, but how do I move forward positively with God’s help?
When Jesus was praying in the Garden of Gethsemane, He needed His disciples to be alert and pray as the cross weighed heavily on His heart. In this critical time of ministry, the disciples fell asleep when they were to keep watch with Him. Mark 14:37 Then Jesus returned and found the disciples asleep. He said to Peter, “Simon, are you asleep? Couldn’t you watch with me even one hour? 38 Keep watch and pray, so that you will not give in to temptation. For the spirit is willing, but the body is weak.” [1]
Extend Grace to Those Who Disappoint You
Grace is God’s undeserved love. Paul writes about God’s grace in connection with our salvation. Ephesians 2: 8 God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you can’t take credit for this; it is a gift from God. 9 Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it.[2]
None of us deserve salvation, but the Lord extends the gift of salvation to us because of His love for us. When others disappoint us or let us down, we can extend them grace. This does not excuse someone, but harsh words and actions don’t mend relationships. When Jesus found His disciples sleeping, instead of keeping watch, they received no offensive comments or criticism. How many times have we let the Lord down, yet He continues to give grace to us? With the Lord’s same grace to us, He empowers us to provide it to others.
Let the Lord Bring Good out of Disappointment
When others let us down, the Lord may lead you to trust Him more profoundly. The experience may help build your relationship with Him. What can I learn from being let down by someone? How do I want to be treated when I let others down? The Lord may show you the need to forgive others when this situation deeply hurts you. Forgiveness is complicated, and sometimes we must ask the Lord to help us.
Ephesians 4:32Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.[3] Jesus’ first words from the cross as He suffered the pain of crucifixion were words of forgiveness. What an example to us, the sheep of His pasture. Luke 23:34 Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they don’t know what they are doing.”[4]
I have asked what to do when friends let me down. To hear more, listen here:
https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/mark-gods-will-not-mine
[1-4] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation . Tyndale House Publishers.