Our daily reflections follow the M'Cheyne Bible reading plan, designed for those who want to read the whole Bible in one year. Each reflection focuses on one of the chapters from that day's readings. Darllenwch rhain yn Gymraeg.
Lord, prepare me to receive your word. Clear my mind and warm my heart. Assure me of your loving purposes for me, and speak into my life today.
While a prayer for protection from 'enemies' might seem an unfamiliar part of our songbook, it's probably not an uncommon experience for many people around the world today, especially in places where people are persecuted. And amid the current coronavirus crisis, mortality might be closer to our minds, and illness, job insecurity and fear might all appear to be our enemies.
What solace can we then find in the words of this psalm? Where do we look when we’re surrounded or feel closed in by an ‘enemy’ – whether that be illness or gossip or a genuine threat to our lives?
The psalmist directs his complaint to God, but that’s not all. Looking back on all God has done for him he chooses to remember God's goodness. Calling to mind the fact God has also rescued in the past (verse 7) brings resonances of the words from the hymn Amazing Grace: ''Tis grace has brought me safe thus far/And grace will lead me home.'
Father, thank you for bringing me through all kinds of challenges, whatever my enemy has been. Help me to remember your faithfulness to me when I feel under threat.
This reflection was written by Helen Crawford, Bible Society's Digital Bible Experience Manager
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