Healing the Brokenhearted 3 – facing your enemies – Shofar Durbanville Bible Studies

The aim of this devotional study is to reflect on God’s way of healing, and respond on that truth.

Scripture

Psalms 23:5-6

5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; My cup runs over. 6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me All the days of my life; And I will dwell in the house of the LORD Forever.

Observations

Describe the scene that verse 5 sketches. Who is present?
What is the state of the Psalmist in this portion of the Sheppard Psalm?
What would you think the Lord would be doing in this scene (with the enemies present)? But now the Lord is “preparing a table” and “anointing my head”. And what does that represent/ mean?

Personal reflection and Application

In this scene the Lord brings David face-to-face in confrontation with his “enemies”, at a table prepared by the Lord, where there is abundant favour and grace.

Consider your life path, and especially the moments of hurt through betrayal, abuse, rejection, etc. The Good Sheppard knows that fullness in life required a face-to-face encounter with these moments, and the (figuratively) with the people who caused those hurts.

Ask the Lord to search your heart and bring to light any unresolved hurts. Write it down, and the people involved. Prayerfully reflect on those moments, the people, then articulate your emotions of the events and the consequences. [If it becomes too much, take a break but commit to see this through; perhaps even make an appointment with a Christian friend, counsellor or pastor].
Consider Jesus’ forgiveness of his enemies while on the cross. Pray for love and then – from your heart – express forgiveness for the people who caused you hurt. Pray until you feel a release of love.
Bless these people who caused your harm: pray God’s goodness and loving favour upon them – because God is good.
It might be helpful for yourself to write a letter to these people – even if you never intend to send it to them – where you express forgiveness and love to them.
Ask the Lord to heal your heart and brig his lasting peace.
Share this healing process with a Christian friend or small group.