In the past, God has disrupted the plans of Israel's enemies (Psalm 83:9-12). On the basis of this past assistance, and on the basis of need (v. 2-8), Asaph prays for God's help (v. 1, 13-18).
Lord, as we read through the Bible, we read of your faithfulness through generations, centuries, and even millennia, to those who are called by your name. We rejoice that today, you have delighted to call us by your name, welcoming us into your family, lavishing us with your love.
Almighty God, on the basis of your love for us we pray: frustrate the plans of those who plot against us. Frustrate the plans of those who plot persecution, violence, and every other transgression against your perfect law of love.
Yes, Lord: frustrate their plans. Yet also: have mercy upon our enemies. Grant them the gift of eternal salvation. They don't deserve it...but then...neither did we. Grant that they might seek your name (v. 16). Grant that they might know that you are the Most High God over all the earth (v. 18). Jesus, you are the friend of sinners, the seeker of the lost, the savior of sinners, our redeemer and friend. We pray: redeem our enemies and make them our friends. Bring them into your family that we might be brothers and sisters in Christ, equally saved by grace, equally loved by you, and fully enjoying the newfound peace and love between us. Save them, O Savior, we pray. Amen.
