“God, get me out of here, away from this evil; protect me from these vicious people.” Psalm 140.1
I came into the last few days carrying a load of stress and pain. I must admit that I had taken on too much and failed to rest in the Presence. I am the one to be accountable; I relearned again the lesson for the umpteenth time!
Now my rest is over, my reveling in the warmth, security, and nurture of the family at an end, I face going out again. I am not excited! There are bad people out there. They have no good in mind, only personal satisfaction, frustration, and anger. Their actions reflect time spent in thinking up new ways to get to the top. I know they will bring me down if God does not protect me!
Even as I write, I realize that I am the first enemy! I catch myself frequently focused on self-fulfillment and personal goal attainment. I react as much in moments of frustration and anger, as I do love. I spent time thinking and planning my next move. I do not always plan to trip others up, but clearly, I am trying to win the game and get to the top. God, protect me from myself!
Having evil surround us is part of daily life. There is nothing we can do to change what is a fact. We can do something to shield ourselves from the impact of what is an overwhelming force. I suggest the following formula:
1. Recognize the closest enemy. In my case, it is I.
2. Take the enemy to God, releasing him/her into His care. Ask God with all the intensity, conviction, and passion possible to work His love, grace, and mercy.
3. As you let go of the first enemy, look around and realize that all your other enemies are merely echoes of your own self. Take each one by the hand and repeat step #2.
God has a way to answer all our fears. God’s love and grace is available to all.
