What To Do About Enemies
Opening Prayer
Identify any people which you might describe as your “enemies.” Pray for them as you prepare to read today’s psalm.
Read Psalm 64:1-10
[1] For the director of music. A psalm of David. Hear me, my God, as I voice my complaint; protect my life from the threat of the enemy. [2] Hide me from the conspiracy of the wicked, from the plots of evildoers. [3] They sharpen their tongues like swords and aim cruel words like deadly arrows. [4] They shoot from ambush at the innocent; they shoot suddenly, without fear. [5] They encourage each other in evil plans, they talk about hiding their snares; they say, “Who will see it?” [6] They plot injustice and say, “We have devised a perfect plan!” Surely the human mind and heart are cunning. [7] But God will shoot them with his arrows; they will suddenly be struck down. [8] He will turn their own tongues against them and bring them to ruin; all who see them will shake their heads in scorn. [9] All people will fear; they will proclaim the works of God and ponder what he has done. [10] The righteous will rejoice in the LORD and take refuge in him; all the upright in heart will glory in him! Scripture taken from the THE HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION, NIV Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
Reflect
What is the psalmist's concern and prayer?What is the first thing that the psalmist asks God for (1,2)? Vengeance doesn’t seem initially to be on his mind. It seems to have more to do with sheer survival. Still, naming our fears and how great they are can be very useful in coming to terms with them. Many of the characteristics of enemies are mentioned in verses 3-7. Make a list of what enemies tend to do in hatching secret plots, spreading blatant lies, making aggressive statements, launching imaginative attacks. What concrete personal experiences can you write alongside any of these actions? You may, of course, not have any enemies–in which case, be very thankful! But if you do sense tension, or mistrust, or outright hostility from others, name your fears and suspicions before God–then leave them with him (7). On many occasions, it is only God who can put things right and exercise justice, so that the problem disappears and we are able to breathe freely again (8). Verses 9,10 are an affirmation of trust in the God of justice and judgment. They can be that for us, too.
Apply
Take time to express your faith and hope in God, but be honest about your situation. God can be trusted.
Closing prayer
Faithful God, I do hope in You when I’m faced with stiff opposition. I know You can be trusted!
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