“…the wicked bend their bows…” Psalm 11:2a (NIV)

King David professed his faith in the opening statement, with the words, “In the Lord I take refuge.” (v.1a) The minstrel-ruler then challenges his advisors with the question, “How then can you say to me: ‘Flee like a bird to your mountain. for look, THE WICKED BEND THEIR BOWS; they set their arrows against the strings to shoot from the shadows at the upright in heart.’” (v.2) David was a warrior. He proved his metal by defeating the giant, and showed he was not afraid of a fight. He had done the same with the bear and lion. (Read 1 Samuel 17:34-36)

David knew all too well the tactics of evil people who “shoot from the shadows”. They are cowards who seek the advantage of surprise attack, and who hide their identity to veil their evil deeds. It is still happening in our day. Things haven’t changed when it comes to human nature.

He returns his advisors question with his own question: “When the foundations are being destroyed, what can the righteous do?” (v.3) He answers his own question with the assuring words that follow: “The Lord is in His holy temple; The Lord in on His heavenly throne.” (v.4a) David then describes God observing the righteous with discerning eyessd; while knowing the wickedness of those who love violence, hating their deeds so much that certain judgment will be metered out to them. (Read vv. 5-6)

Perhaps this portion of scripture encouraged Paul to write his letter encouraging the Ephesians to trust God through times of peril or hardship:

“Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore, put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.

And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.” (Ephesians 6:10-18, NIV)

Our God loves justice because He is completely holy and righteous. God breathes into David’s psalm these closing words: “…upright men will see His face.” (v.7) Once again, we find that the heart who kneels before the King of Kings is empowered to stand against the evil of wickedness and violence. It is important to understand that the description is of those who walk by faith, articulate their faith, and walk their talk. Faith without works is dead (Read James 2:14-26), so when one professes to have faith in God, one is resolving to live holy… set apart for God’s purposes. He never promised it was easy, though He did promise to never leave us or forsake us. (Read Matthew 28:16-20)

Take refuge in The Lord; understand the tactics of the wicked; trust God at all times; and anticipate the joy of heaven, when we will see His face!

Have a blessed day!