Picture two men in the same town, the same night, each in deep, dark bitterness.  Their names are Peter and Judas, disciples of Jesus.  Peter had cursed and sworn that he was not a follower of the Lord, who was about to be crucified.  Judas had just betrayed Jesus for a few pieces of silver.  (See Matthew 26 and 27.)

Then, each realizes the magnitude of their crime.  Judas sobs, “I have betrayed innocent blood,” and goes and hangs himself.  Of him, Jesus says, “It would be better for him if he had not been born,” Mark 14:21.

As Jesus is being abused and about to be crucified, he turns and looks at Peter who his just disowned Him.  Instantly, his conscience is shredded with remorse.  (Luke 22:54-62)

Judas’ life ends in a horrible suicide.  Peter, (after Pentecost) preaches in that same city and thousands repent.  There are two kinds of grief over failure.  See II Corinthians 7:10.

“Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death.”

There are, then, two kinds of grief.  Reserve your hand of comfort for Peter — not Judas!