Security in the Midst of Danger

Let's be really practical. Are our prayers like this? Do we declare with confidence how firmly we are rooted in God? And do we know how to turn to him in prayer when people around us are behaving badly? Do we dare to pray like David does in verse 4? Should we?

What is troubling you? Who is out there making life difficult? Are there people around you who drag you down? Who say one thing to your face and make trouble for you once you're out of earshot? People you can't get away from because they're colleagues at work, or neighbours, or members of your own family?

What do you do? Are you sufficiently aware of the dangers of being sucked into evil (verse 3)? Do you try to retaliate? Do you feel angry at what's happening and bottle up your feelings while you try to forget it? Or do these situations make their way into your prayers?

Retaliation is what David has learned not to do. If you have trouble with the number of times David prays for vindication and calls down curses on his enemies, remember that this is because he takes these feelings to God and resolutely refuses to take vengeance himself.

Moses also knew all about being surrounded by people who were unfaithful. Centuries before David, he had God say, "It is mine to avenge, I will repay" (Deuteronomy 32:35), words which are echoed in the New Testament by Paul (Romans 12:19).

David's faith was rooted in a faith that could describe God as his "rock" (verse 1), his "fortress of salvation" (verse 8) and his "shepherd" (verse 9). This God would look after him.

Respond in Prayer

Lord Jesus Christ, who knew more than anyone not to retaliate, keep us in your hand. "Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil," so that we be faithful to you. In your name we pray, Amen.

Annabel Robinson

Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® (NIV®).