Appreciate Your Enemies

Daily Devotional – Monday, September 11, 2023
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies…
Psalms 23:5 (NIV)

Today, I came across a hilarious Facebook post: “If you have no enemies, in whose presence will Jesus prepare a table for you?” At first, I thought the person who posted the message was just being funny. On a closer look, though, I realized that for you to realize your dreams, you must appreciate your enemies.

Love Your Foes

By now, you know that the post is a commentary on Psalms 23:5, which states, “You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil. My cup overflows.” (Psalms 23:5). David envisions a triumphant climax for those who trust the divine Shepherd despite the perils of life.

The enemies can only watch helplessly as the shepherd honors his faithful follower. The foes now realize that God was all along watching over His sheep, even as they walked through the valley of the shadow of death. Indeed, the enemies are necessary players in the banquet, although they are mere spectators.

Thank Your Rivals

How impactful would the banquet be without the adversaries attending? In the lyrics of a popular gospel song, “Pray for your enemy to live so long that he or she can witness God blessing you.” Those who place roadblocks in your path are critical to your progress. You would not enjoy your triumphs if you did not have to fight your way through them.

Think of people who harass you without reason in your workplace, neighborhood, learning institution, and elsewhere. Reflect on those who find fault in everything you do without giving you a chance to explain yourself. Take a moment to think about those who spend time gossiping about you and maligning your name.

Appreciate Your Enemies

Appreciate your enemy. How far would you be without them? They motivate you to find a new and better way to achieve your goals. Thanks to their hostility, you have scaled new heights in academics, personal growth, professionalism, family relations, and spirituality. Foes are assets. If you have no enemies, in whose presence will Jesus prepare a table for you?

Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to love and pray for my enemies because they contribute to my triumphs.