The Psalms are full of people expressing real emotions about real-life situations. The psalmists speak honestly about feeling far from God, scared for their lives, joyful beyond belief and desperate for God’s presence.

They also talk about feeling betrayed.

So when you feel let down or abandoned by someone you trust and love, check out these Psalms. Say them aloud as a cry to God for help. Read them to express your anger. Meditate on the words that remind us that even though humans are bound to disappoint us, God will always remain faithful to us.

1. Psalm 55
   In this Psalm, the author talks about running from his enemies. But he tells God that his is especially painful, because his enemies were once his close friends. He concludes that he must rely upon God, who is always faithful, to care for him.

   Highlight verse:
   "Leave your troubles with the Lord, and he will defend you; he never lets honest people be defeated." (Psalm 55:22)

2. Psalm 41
   Here, the writer feels like troubles are coming at him from all sides. He is sick, people are saying bad things about him, and someone who was once his friend is turning against him. His only hope and consolation is in God.

   Highlight verse:
   "They will not triumph over me, and I will know that you are pleased with me. You will help me, because I do what is right; you will keep me in your presence forever.” (Psalm 41:11, 12)

3. Psalm 89
   Sometimes when you feel betrayed it’s helpful to remember God’s faithfulness. The writer of this Psalm proclaims God’s steadiness, even saying that God is “as permanent as the sky.” The author was probably in a difficult situation—he was witnessing chaos and destruction all around him. But in the midst of this, he reminds himself that God does not change—he is faithful.

   Highlight verse: 
   "I know that your love will last for all time, that your faithfulness is as permanent as the sky.” (Psalm 89:2)

4. Psalm 125
   One of the most frightening feelings is being alone, not knowing who is on your side to defend you. This Psalm paints a picture of God’s steadiness that is the opposite of betrayal. God, who does not change, surrounds his people and protects them.

   Highlight verse: 
   "As the mountains surround Jerusalem, so the Lord surrounds his people, now and forever.” (Psalm 125:2)