PSALM 41:9-11

Even my close friend, someone I trusted, one who shared my bread, has turned against me.

But may you have mercy on me, Lord; raise me up, that I may repay them.

I know that you are pleased with me, for my enemy does not triumph over me.

TO PONDER

I find this particular part of Psalm 41 a bit of a challenge because so often it can feel like my 'enemies' are triumphing over me.

Now when I say 'enemies' I don't mean it in the traditional sense. However, as a pastor and as a leader of a Christian church, it often feels like people and organisations who act in ways that are obviously in contradiction to the Word of God get the best of things in our culture and society today. It seems to me that often those who hold a position against Christianity or 'the church' usually receive a better hearing in the public sphere than those who would try to promote God's idea of the 'good life'. Sometimes, this can even be our closest friends or members of our own families.

I know there have been times, like there obviously was for the Psalmist, that I have wanted God to give me the opportunity to serve up a giant plate of humble pie to those who seem determined to put themselves in opposition to God and the spread of the gospel of Jesus. I want to 'repay' them for what I see as their attacks against the church. However, we also have to acknowledge that when 'the church' has taken it upon itself to 'repay' it's enemies all we have usually done is give them more valid reason to be against us.

The Psalmist's final verse here recognises that while people, institutions, groups, even the world, can seem against us that God doesn't let them have the final word. Even though they may score a few hits and win a few battles along the way, the final victory belongs to God and he will not let these 'enemies' have the ultimate victory. God has got your back - there is no need to retreat in the face of opposition, God has you covered. Instead, keep moving forward trusting that He will make a way.

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, thank you that you are with me in the battles of this life. Please help me to recognise that other people are not my enemies, they are people that you want to win into your kingdom. Instead help me to remember that my real enemies, sin, death, and the devil, have already been defeated by Jesus and his death and resurrection. Amen

Today's devotion written by Mathew von Stanke, LifeWay Newcastle