In the ancient world, when nations clashed in battle, it was always seen as a clash of gods. It was never just seen as physical warfare but also as spiritual warfare. This is why the psalmists employed prayer as their first defensive tactic. They recognised that they were part of a battle between the Kingdom of God and those kingdoms, ultimately spiritual ones, who are in rebellion against God. This theme is established in Psalm 2, and we should read every battle psalm in the light of this psalm. This is also why we can readily apply these prayers to our context. We might not be in a physical battle, but we are in the same spiritual battle described here in Psalm 83 and Psalm 2. There are forces working against you. They are covert and designed, not to kill you, but to get you to serve the rebellion. The spiritual forces of evil (Ephesians 6:12) want to turn you into a weapon that they can use against God’s people. They want to use you to sow division and discord in the church. They want to convince you to be offended and angry at others. They will convince you that you are better than others and more likely to be right. They will incite frustration and indignation at others, particularly those in positions of influence. Our greatest defence in this battle is humility. Our greatest weapons are love, honour and grace. Don’t allow the enemy to weaponise you.
Ask God where you may have played into enemy tactics.
Read Psalm 83
