One of the most difficult trials to face I life is the opposition and disapproval of good people, especially those we esteem and even love. “It is not an enemy who taunts me—then I could bear it; it is not an adversary. . . but it is you, my companion, my familiar friend. We used to hold sweet converse together; within God’s house we walked in fellowship.” (Psalm 55:12-13)

In Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar the darkest part of the assassination was Caesar’s recognizing his friend Brutus as one of his murderers. He exclaims, “You, too, Brutus? Then fall, Caesar!” and he dies.

In the times in which we live, the many kinds of strife affect our friendships and even family relations. Political and social positions press in on every side and make us cautious with our acquaintances about expressing opinions that might not be shared with our listener. In the end, our relationships suffer and result in an isolation and loneliness. Psalm 55 continues: “My companion attacks his friends; he violates his covenant. His talk is as smooth as butter, yet war is in his heart; his words are more soothing than oil, yet they are drawn swords.” (Psalm 55:20-21)

With all the means of communication and social media, there have never been more words flung about than there are today; yet tensions seem always to be rising across the globe. The psalmist has only one conclusion: “Cast your cares on the Lord and He will sustain you.” Jesus, too, has much to say about this: “Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God. Indeed, the very hairs on your head are all numbered. Don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.” (Luke 12:6)

This God, whom Jesus knew so well, is the same God today as He was in the first century. Though humanity struggles to change and “advance”, God remains the same, and His promises remain as well. His admonition “Don’t be afraid”echoes throughout the Bible, both Old and New Testaments. As a Father, God speaks reassurance to His children, so that we may find our way through the upheavals of our times. His words have reached souls for thousands of years. They are worth reading. Strong as some of His actions are, you can quickly discover that He is truly not an enemy.

Love in Him,

Prue