Everyone certainly faces “enemies” in their lives. These enemies can be people who hurt us, opposing situations, or even our own weaknesses. However, the Bible repeatedly shows that the enemies we face can be God’s tools to bring us closer to Him.
Take the example of David when he was pursued by Saul. Although David was innocent, he became a fugitive and lived in hiding. It was during this time that many psalms were born, filled with heartfelt outpourings to God. The pressure from his enemies made David rely more on God, not on his own strength. He wrote, “But I trust in you, O LORD; I say, ‘You are my God.'” (Psalm 31:15).
Similarly, the Apostle Paul experienced the same. He faced much opposition, imprisonment, and even threats of death. Yet, in the midst of it all, he became even more convinced that God’s power is real. 2 Corinthians 12:10 says, “For when I am weak, then I am strong.” The enemies who tried to destroy him actually made his faith stronger.
Sometimes God does not immediately remove the enemies from our lives because He wants us to learn to walk closer with Him.
Enemies can be a means to train our faith, develop patience, and test our hearts. Without pressure, we might never truly pray earnestly or fully depend on His grace.
Jesus Himself said in Matthew 5:44, “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” Why? Because through that response, we learn the character of Christ. Enemies not only make us stronger but can also be an opportunity for God’s love to be revealed.
So, when enemies come, don’t just see them as a burden. See them as an opportunity. Every opposition can be a reason to draw closer to God. Like David, let us learn to make prayer and worship our refuge, not revenge or bitterness.
Lord, thank You because even the enemies in my life You use to bring me closer to You. Help me not to repay evil with evil, but to learn to see every pressure as an opportunity to grow. Draw my heart always closer to You. Amen.
