Praying the Psalms: Finding Strength & Hope in Your PrayersSample

Do you have enemies? People who are against you, who seek to hurt or discourage you? David knew plenty about enemies. For many years he lived in hiding while his father-in-law, King Saul, tried to kill him. Sounds like the definition of an enemy! Before King Saul, David had already experienced other types of enemies. As a young man David fought lions, bears, and a giant named Goliath. In addition, David faced the betrayal of his own son, Absalom. In Psalm 5, David describes rising early to wait for God. Even though he is surrounded by opposition, he seeks God's guidance (v. 3). He affirms God's righteous nature and stands firms in his commitment to walk the just path. No doubt you can connect with how David feels. We have encountered people in our lives who "flatter with their tongue" (v. 9, NKJV), who "speak falsehood" (v. 6, NKJV) toward us or those we love. But not every enemy we will face in life is a person. Our enemies could be circumstances, fears, lies, or even a societal barriers that keeps us from accepting God's love for us, which ultimately hinders us from loving others. As you read through this Psalm, pray for God's help with the enemies that you face—whether that be a specific person, situation, or feeling. Allow Psalm 5 to remind you that God will bless the righteous and surround His people with His shield (v. 12).