In Psalm 58, David prays that his enemies might not be like deaf adders refusing to listen to the voice of the snake charmer (v. 4-5), but might instead become like toothless lions (v. 6).
How long, O Lord, will rebellion against you and your ways be tolerated? We long for the days when your laws will reign supreme, when the whole world will be governed not by the laws of sinful nature, but by the laws of love. Let not the world be deaf to your voice any longer. May they hear your Word and be won over by your love. May we all be like the snakes tamed by their charmers, that we might not strike out, but heed your voice, and obey your commands.
We pray also, O Lord, make us all like the de-fanged lions. According to your Word, a day is coming when we will be given new hearts, that will be enabled to perfectly keep your laws, and then we will not be able to sin ever again. What a comforting thought! Truly, my sin is my own worst enemy; and a terrible enemy to everyone around me (all the people I love and care for). I long for the day when I will be like a lion without fangs; when I won't be able to cause pain and inflict suffering anymore.
Yes, Jesus, we pray: take away our enemies' abilities to cause us and others harms. But we pray also: remove from us the ability to sin as well. We want to follow you and keep your commands. We want to live lives of perfect love. Come quickly, Lord Jesus, and give us the new hearts you have promised us, that we might never sin again. In your name do we pray, amen.
