Enemy Mine

I will praise Your name, O Lord,

for it is good.

For He has delivered me out of all trouble;

and my eye has seen its desire

upon my enemies.

Psalm 54:6-7

David talked alot about his enemies. Of course, 3000 years ago, he was living in a day where a man's enemies were literally out to kill him. We think if someone lies about us or mistreats us or slights us in some way, they are our enemy. But in David's day, an enemy was one who was out to put a knife to your throat or a sword through your gut. It was primal and savage, it was visceral. And it was very, very real. Your enemies weren't out to destroy your name or your reputation; they were out for your blood and your life!

So perhaps with a little justification did David sometimes pray that God would "git" his enemies. The Psalmist wanted God to chase his enemies down a dark and slippery path, spin them around in confusion, throw them down on the ground and kick their teeth out. He wanted justice, but sometimes he would settle for vengeance.

I have often wondered, do I have any enemies? Is there really someone out there who is actually hostile toward me? I know at times I have had adversarial relationships with individuals. There have been rivalries and competitions. There have been arguments and disagreements. I have at times waged wars of words. On occasion, I have thought that someone might be out to get me. But in reality, those times when someone actually wanted my destruction were few and far between. And even then...

God has indeed delivered me time and again from all trouble, and I hate to say that I believe I have sometimes witnessed the retribution of God upon those who have done me wrong. But I don't think I've ever wished it on anybody, and I have certainly never rejoiced in the misfortune of others.

Jesus said:

"Love your enemies,

bless those who curse you,

do good to those who hate you,

and pray for those who despitefully use you

and persecute you."

It's what I try to do every time they come to my mind.