How can we guard against enemies rejoicing over us, as in Psalm 35:25? Understanding the cry of Psalm 35:25 “Let them not say in their hearts, ‘Aha, just what we wanted!’ Let them not say, ‘We have swallowed him up!’” (Psalm 35:25) David pleads that hostile voices never gain the satisfaction of seeing God’s servant overwhelmed. The plea shows two things: • Enemies exist—and they watch. • The Lord can prevent their triumph. Recognizing the reality of opposition • Spiritual enemies: “Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion” (1 Peter 5:8). • Human antagonists: “The wicked plot against the righteous” (Psalm 37:12). Knowing we are targets keeps us alert rather than surprised. Grounding our confidence in God’s character • His faithfulness: “The LORD is near to all who call on Him” (Psalm 145:18). • His justice: “Vengeance is Mine; I will repay” (Romans 12:19). • His unfailing presence: “The LORD is on my side; I will not be afraid” (Psalm 118:6). A fixed gaze on who God is silences the taunts of enemies before they begin. Practical ways to guard our hearts and witness • Suit up daily with the full armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-18). • Stay rooted in Scripture; let truth answer every lie (Psalm 119:11). • Maintain a clean conscience through prompt repentance (1 John 1:9). • Choose words carefully; refuse the bait of retaliation (Proverbs 15:1). • Celebrate small deliverances; thanksgiving builds courage (Psalm 34:1). • Keep short accounts in relationships; unresolved conflict hands enemies ammunition (Ephesians 4:26-27). Maintaining integrity under scrutiny The enemy rejoices when believers stumble morally. Guard that front by: – Accountability friendships (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10). – Boundaries that flee temptation rather than flirt with it (2 Timothy 2:22). – Consistent service; occupied hands leave less room for mischief (Galatians 6:9). Standing together in intercession David’s psalm is corporate worship literature; he expected Israel to sing with him. Likewise: • Invite others to pray specifically that no plan formed against you prospers (Isaiah 54:17). • Intercede for fellow believers under attack—shared victory multiplies joy, shared burdens divide pain (James 5:16). Living from Christ’s finished victory • At the cross, Jesus “disarmed the powers and authorities” (Colossians 2:15). • Because He rose, enemies’ gloating is temporary; our triumph is eternal (2 Corinthians 2:14). Daily remind yourself: you fight from victory, not for it. A closing checklist for guarding against enemy celebration □ Am I trusting God’s character more than fearing foes? □ Is my armor on and my Bible open? □ Are my relationships clear of bitterness and hidden sin? □ Do I pray with and for others regularly? □ Is my confidence anchored in Christ’s finished work? Walk this path, and the cry of Psalm 35:25 turns from anxious plea into steady assurance: God will not let our adversaries have the last laugh. |
    |