Psalm 57:4-6
I am in the midst of lions;
I am forced to dwell among ravenous beasts—
men whose teeth are spears and arrows,
whose tongues are sharp swords.Be exalted, O God, above the heavens;
let your glory be over all the earth.They spread a net for my feet—
I was bowed down in distress.
They dug a pit in my path—
but they have fallen into it themselves.
Matthew 5:44
But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you…
Devotion
In some fight songs, the writers will identify their arch rivals. This is true in Psalm 57. David identifies his enemies as “hungry lions” who are out to devour him. This Psalm was probably written while David was hiding from King Saul. David is letting God know exactly what he is up against. Those seeking to kill him are setting traps and waiting for the opportunity to ambush him and kill him. David is not hesitant to describe in detail how he feels in the midst of life’s battles.
We can learn a lot from David’s example. When we are in the midst of life’s battles, we can turn to our ultimate hero (God) and express to Him what we are up against. Yes, He already knows our situation, but it is helpful for us to be able to express our hearts when we are battling life’s giants. There is a sense of calmness that comes when we know our Hero is aware of our situation.
Questions to Ponder:
Who are you up against? What are you up against? Do you ever tell God in direct terms who or what you are up against? If not, why not? Are you able to clearly identify the giants you are up against?
Prayer Points
- Thank the LORD for His invitation for You to come to Him and talk in the place of prayer.
- Be honest with Him right now with what is bothering you (big or small).
Suggested Prayer
Abba, thank You for the sixteen Fight Psalms in Your Word. Thank You for Psalm 57 where David has “straight talk” with You by talking directly to You, unedited. Thank You LORD that just like the Lament Psalms, in private prayer I can come to You boldly and unedited.
Your arms are always wide open. Your ears are always attentive. Your love is unfailing and You tell me to come to You over and over again.
Thank You that in the secret place where it’s just us, I can unload everything I’m feeling and dealing with to you. I can even tell You about the enemy and what it feels like for me and what I need You to do.
So, LORD, teach me and Your church to continue to be honest about our battles and how it feels to us at that moment. In Jesus’ name I pray these things. Amen.