Psalm 5:8-12
For the director of music. For pipes. A psalm of David.

Lead me, Lord, in your righteousness because of my enemies— make your way straight before me. Not a word from their mouth can be trusted; their heart is filled with malice. Their throat is an open grave; with their tongues they tell lies. Declare them guilty, O God! Let their intrigues be their downfall. Banish them for their many sins, for they have rebelled against you. But let all who take refuge in you be glad; let them ever sing for joy. Spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may rejoice in you. Surely, Lord, you bless the righteous; you surround them with your favor as with a shield.

Life’s path is filled with precarious stretches and wayward people. Like a child needs to be led by their parents, we need God to hold our hand and keep us on the right road. Enemies enter every onramp. They cannot be trusted. Following them leads to certain danger.

David prayed that God would judge his enemies and “banish them.” In effect, pull them off the highway! Sound harsh? Do you want to share the road (or have your loved ones share the road) with dangerous drivers?

So, follow hard after God. He will always lead you to a good place. “Our heart is at ease in our God.”[1] The path will not always be smooth. We have to watch our footing. But He is there and with Him by our side, gladness replaces gloom. Joy drives out dread. Those who follow God live under His protection and are surrounded by His grace.

Father, I love You and I take refuge in You. Inject gladness and joy into my heart. I pray that You protect me today from the Enemy, my enemies, and myself. Surround me with Your grace as if I were carrying a protective shield. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

[1] C. H. Spurgeon, The Treasury of David, (Hendrickson Publishers, Peabody, MA: Vol 1). 49.