April 17

Enemies at Peace

When a man’s ways please the LORD, He makes even the man’s enemies live at peace with him. — Prov 16:7 BSB

I must ensure that my ways please the Lord. Even then, I will have enemies, and perhaps even more because I strive to do what is right. But what a promise this is! The Lord will turn the wrath of man into praise and reduce it so that it does not distress me.

He can make an enemy cease harming me, even if they intend to do so. He did this with Laban, who pursued Jacob but did not dare to touch him. Or He can soften the enemy's wrath and make them friendly, as He did with Esau, who met Jacob in a brotherly manner, even though Jacob feared he would be attacked. The Lord can also transform a furious adversary into a brother in Christ and a fellow worker, as He did with Saul of Tarsus. Oh, that He would do this in every case where a persecuting spirit appears!

Happy is the person whose enemies become like the lions in Daniel’s den—quiet and companionable! When I face death, the last enemy, I pray that I may be at peace. My primary concern should be to please the Lord in all things. Oh, for faith and holiness; for these bring pleasure to the Most High!