Find Peace in the Face of Hidden Attacks
Hear my voice, O God, in my meditation; Preserve my life from fear of the enemy. hide me from the secret plots of the wicked, from the rebellion of the workers of iniquity. ~ Psalms 64:1-2
Anyone who’s ever felt the sting of criticism, misunderstanding, or unfair judgment can relate to Psalms 64. King David wrote this Psalm in a time of distress, seeking God’s protection from those who secretly conspired against him. As you read each verse, you can feel his vulnerability as he described being surrounded by unseen threats, yet his confidence in God was unwavering. This psalm is a reminder that even when we can’t see the attacks or fully understand the motives of those against us, God sees all and stands ready to be our Protector.
There have been many time is my own life that I felt under attack. Not by a physical enemy, but by words and assumptions from those around me. Misunderstandings and unfair judgments circulating, and though in many cases I hadn’t done anything wrong, it felt as though people were speaking behind my back. During these times, I often felt concerned about people that I deeply cared about being hurt and even betrayed because of rumors and lies being whispered.
In those moments, I found myself turning to God in prayer, just as David did all those years ago. Again, I know that the petty attacks on my character were not serious like what David faced, but God was still faithful even in my small sufferings. I voiced my fears, my frustrations, and my need for His help. I found comfort in knowing that God hears even the quietest cries of our hearts. Instead of focusing on defending myself or trying to control the situation, I began to pray for peace, asking God to shield my heart from bitterness and to guide me in handling the situation with grace. Over time, He gave me the strength to rise above the negativity and trust that He would bring truth and healing. And He did, every time!
Psalm 64 reminds us that God is not only our shield but also our justice. He knows every word spoken in the dark and hears every plot made in secret. Just as He protected David, He promises to protect us from both visible and hidden attacks. We don’t need to carry the weight of defending ourselves; God is our refuge, and His justice prevails.
Below are some suggestions on how you can trust God and find His peace during times of persecution and trouble:
- Pour Out Your Heart to God: Just as David expressed his fears and asked for protection, take time to honestly share your feelings with God. He is always listening and ready to bring comfort.
- Trust in God’s Justice: Remind yourself that God sees everything, even the intentions hidden from us. Ask Him for peace, trusting that He will handle the situation according to His perfect justice.
- Release the Need for Control: It’s tempting to want to defend yourself, but letting go of that urge frees us from additional stress. Ask God to help you release the need to control the situation and instead focus on honoring Him in your response.
- Pray for Those Who Hurt You: This one can be difficult, but it’s powerful. Pray for God’s light to touch those who have come against you. This not only softens your heart but also brings you into agreement with His love and grace.
- Rest in God’s Protection: Remember, God is your shield. Reflect on verses from Psalms or other scriptures about His protection and let them reassure you. Take a verse with you each day to meditate when you begin to feel your peace leaving. God’s word is a powerful weapon you can use at anytime of the day.
Today I want to encourage you to thank your heavenly Father for being your shield and defender. In moments when you feel attacked, misunderstood, or judged unfairly, ask for His empowering grace to turn to Him first, to fill your heart with peace and remind you that He sees all things. He will guide you to respond with grace and faith, knowing that He is your protector. Lastly, release any bitterness or desire for control and trust in His justice and love. Let Psalm 64 encourage you today to rest in God’s protection. When you feel the weight of hidden struggles or unspoken criticisms, remember that God is with you, shielding you and working for your good. In His presence, you can find peace that surpasses all understanding.
Today’s scripture reading: Psalms 64
1 Hear my voice, O God, in my meditation; Preserve my life from fear of the enemy.
2 Hide me from the secret plots of the wicked, from the rebellion of the workers of iniquity,
3 Who sharpen their tongue like a sword, and bend their bows to shoot their arrows—bitter words,
4 That they may shoot in secret at the blameless; Suddenly they shoot at him and do not fear.
5 They encourage themselves in an evil matter; They talk of laying snares secretly; They say, “Who will see them?”
6 They devise iniquities: “We have perfected a shrewd scheme.” Both the inward thought and the heart of man are deep.
7 But God shall shoot at them with an arrow; Suddenly they shall be wounded.
8 So He will make them stumble over their own tongue; All who see them shall flee away.
9 All men shall fear, and shall declare the work of God; For they shall wisely consider His doing.
10 The righteous shall be glad in the Lord, and trust in Him. And all the upright in heart shall glory.
The Daily Dose 