Let God Arise and Let His Enemies Be Scattered
Let God arise, let his enemies be scattered: Let them also that hate him flee before him. Psalm 68:1 KJV
Imagine every obstacle in your life fleeing in fear as God rises to fight for you. This powerful image captures the heart of Psalm 68:1: “Let God arise, let His enemies be scattered.” But what does it mean for God to “arise,” and why does this cause His enemies to scatter? Embedded in this ancient phrase is a profound truth that offers hope and strength for every battle we face.
In Hebrew, “arise” (qum) conveys standing up, establishing, and stepping into action. In ancient Israel, this word often brought to mind a king rising from his throne, preparing to defend and protect his people. When the psalmist uses it here, however, he is calling on God, the supreme authority, to take His position against all that opposes Him. Israel’s history overflows with instances of God doing just this—leading them through impossible situations and scattering their enemies. At the Red Sea, God’s presence parted the waters, delivering His people from the Egyptians. At Jericho, His power toppled the city’s walls as His people walked in faith. With God “arising,” Israel’s enemies melted away, powerless before the Lord’s might.
The “enemies” in this context extend beyond physical foes. The Hebrew word for “enemies” (oyeb) refers to hostile forces, both visible and invisible, that resist God’s purposes. For Israel, these included oppressive armies and antagonistic nations. For us, these “enemies” include not only visible foes like fear, discouragement, and distraction, but more importantly, unseen spiritual forces that work through everyday situations and people to oppose God’s purpose in our lives, families, neighborhoods, and even nations. There is an active, invisible kingdom opposing the establishment of God’s kingdom in the world. Yet, as Jesus promised, the gates of hell will not prevail against His people (Matthew 16:18).
So, what does it mean when God arises? The psalmist describes His enemies as “scattered.” The Hebrew word for “scattered” (puwts) implies sudden, chaotic dispersal. Just as smoke dissolves in a gust of wind or wax melts before fire, the very presence of God causes opposition to crumble. Nothing can hold its ground when God stands in His power.
For us today, calling on God to “arise” is an invitation for His authority to take precedence over any force coming against us. It’s a declaration of faith, acknowledging that His power alone can overcome. When we invite God to arise in our circumstances, we shift our confidence from our own abilities to His unmatched strength. Like the Israelites, we can trust that when God stands up, our obstacles will be scattered and our fears dispelled.
This call for God to “arise” is more than a cry for help; it’s a bold stance, grounded in the belief that no enemy can withstand His presence. When we surrender our battles to Him, we invite the peace and power of His victory into every challenge we face.
Meditate
Consider a challenge in your life that feels overwhelming. What would it look like for God to “arise” in this situation?
Act on the Word
Invite God to arise over your challenges today. Surrender every obstacle to Him and believe that His presence will scatter all that opposes you.
Pray
Lord, arise in my life. Scatter every force against me, and let me rest in Your power and presence.
Recommended Read
- When God Fights Your Battles
- Warfare Praise and Worship
- We Wrestle Not Against Flesh and Blood
- I will Build My Church
- All Deshen Daily Devotionals
Free Mini E-book: From Spiritual Dryness to Flourishing
