Disappointed?

In a pivotal moment of the American Revolutionary War, British forces surrendered to the colonial army in Saratoga, New York, on this day in 1777. In many ways, the hero of this battle was Benedict Arnold, an accomplished soldier in the war. Arnold would later make some questionable decisions and developed many enemies. Feeling overlooked and taken for granted, he eventually decided to switch sides. Yet after he defected, he found himself an outcast among the British as well and never received the rewards he sought.

Arnold’s actions remind us of Judas Iscariot. He earlier had left everything to follow Jesus and actually had become an important disciple as the man who kept the money. Yet, like Arnold, Judas faced disappointment and concluded that his commitment to Jesus was futile. Feeling frustrated and taken for granted, he negotiated a deal with Jesus’ enemies and betrayed Him for 30 pieces of silver.

But Judas, like Arnold, discovered that he did not get what he expected from his betrayal. By giving in to temptation, disappointment, and frustration, he lost everything. You may experience discouragement and things you do not understand. You may feel overwhelmed or underappreciated. But don’t allow Satan to tempt you with thoughts of giving up or giving in to your emotions. Instead, renew your commitment to God and His kingdom. Call on Jesus. Allow Him to fill you with hope and to give you purpose and meaning.