Psalm 27:12b “…false witnesses rise up against me, breathing out violence.”
[Satan certainly rises against me and incites people to do the same. As Jesus said in Matthew 5:11-12,”Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me” and finishes with this astounding command, “Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.”
I think of a neighbor who in the past spread lies about me on facebook and as well as in town and threatened me. He certainly was slanderous. I had to go to Psalm 37 for the insight, encouragement to do good to those who act like my enemy–certainly a supernatural view.
I praise you that you allow such attacks to strengthen my faith, expose my sin and mature me. As you led me to offer the sacrifice of thanksgiving for my neighbor’s actions, and to respond by doing good to him, you resolved the situation and he’s become somewhat pleasant and positive.
Help me to discern the lies told about me, whether they come from the devil, my flesh, people, or the world—and to counteract them with your truth.
Help me also to be alert to any violent aspects of my own emotions that come from my old nature, the world and the devil: anger, impatience, strong words and negative actions. Help me to quickly process them before they can control me and instead to act out of truth, love and grace. I praise you for your gracious, specific protection and help.]
