"Psalming" with the Enemy

I mentioned it in the sermon yesterday. It is alarming. Almost every Psalm complains of or mentions an enemy. The Psalms are riddled with human enemies. They seem to be jumping off the page brandishing swords and barking threats and curses. I've read the Psalms many times before. Maybe it's the feel of the ESV. Maybe it's the improvement in so many of my relationships over the last year that makes the enemy reports so jarring. I don't know what it is, but I know it's worth pausing at. Something here needs to be thought through. God is speaking in fresh ways through His ancient Word. Look at all these enemies. Where do they all come from? Christ has led me to love many of my actual enemies in life. Praise His Name. To love an enemy is to not have an enemy ... at least for my part.

Yet still, in this book of songs, inspiration, and comfort, there are enemies everywhere.

Do any of you see this? What are your thoughts?

So, how's it going?

Is your 2009 Bible reading plan in the dump? Of have you persevered? Just wondering. Also, I want to let you know that resetting your plans is fine; if Bible reading goals that once inspired you now haunt and taunt you, there is hope. You can start fresh. Anyone need any ideas on how? Let me know. 

Also, if you want to e-mail me notes on your progress or insights you've gleaned through your study, please send them to jtorres@goodwillchurch.org and let me know if they are publishable or not. I'd like to include some in this blog to enourage all of of us.

It's great to be back. God bless you!