But do not kill them, Lord our shield, or my people will forget. In your might uproot them and bring them down. Psalm 59:11
Saul had sent men to kill David and David cried out to God for help. He was trusting God to deliver him from his enemies. In asking God for help, David asked that they would not be killed because then his people would forget what God had done for them.
One of the most common prayers for a lot of people is that God completely destroy their enemies. People would often love to see a bad dictator or some other evil person be destroyed to get them out of the way of living safely. Many rejoice when a bad person dies.
David had used great wisdom in asking God not to destroy his enemies. Destroying the enemy completely removes the need for God’s protection. Where there is no threat of an enemy, there is very little trust in God. The appearance of a need for God is diminished.
Every believer needs to live his life in complete dependence upon God. When things start going “good,” it is common for people to stop depending upon God. They often become self-sufficient and forget what God can do or has done in the past.
God is allowing enemies in your life for several reasons. One is to build your trust in Him to protect you. Another is to allow you to be a witness to them. And to allow you to live your life like Jesus–giving you a chance to love your enemies as Jesus did.
When you are faced with an enemy, ask God for strength to endure what is happening. Ask God to show you ways to love your enemy and be a witness to them. And do not be afraid to ask God to frustrate the plans of the enemy to attack you.
God allows people to rise up and He removes people from position. He does that with believers and with non-believers. God is in control. Allow Him to be in control with your life and enemies.
How loving are you to your enemies today?
I pray today that God will fill you with His love for all people; that you will know God’s protection in your life; that God will remove all fear of the enemy; and that you will be a witness of Jesus to your enemies.
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