The arrogant have dug pits for me, men who are not in accord with Your law. Psalm 119:85

  This section, verses 81-88, is a vivid description of what it is like to live in a fallen world. What the psalmist describes is not unusual opposition. Therefore, the Christian ought not to be surprised when they face such hostility.  

But even if you should suffer for the sake of righteousness, you are blessed. And do not fear their intimidation, and do not be troubled… 1 Peter 3:14

 

If you are reviled for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you. Make sure that none of you suffers as a murderer, or thief, or evildoer, or a troublesome meddler; but if anyone suffers as a Christian, he is not to be ashamed, but is to glorify God in this name. 1 Peter 4:14–16

  The psalmist describes the enemy as “arrogant.” This arrogance leads a person to believe that he is right. He has no need of God or God’s word. He is the authority in his own life. As a result, he does to others whatever he wants. He has no moral compass so there is no limit to what he is willing to do.   The enemy is also incredibly deceitful. The psalmist says that this arrogant man has dug pits for him. The idea is that he is secretly and creatively setting traps for the psalmist. It is amazing that this wicked person will gladly spend time, resources and energy for the sole purpose of ruining someone else’s life.   The final phrase, “Men who are not in accord with Your law,” further defines the priorities of this man’s life. On one hand he is the enemy of the psalmist. But on the other hand, he is the enemy of God. While he believes that he can oppose God’s children without consequence, the fact that he opposes God’s children means that he opposes God. As a result, he will one day suffer dire consequences for his failure to humbly submit to God. His arrogance will lead to judgment.   When you face the intense opposition of the arrogant, remember that if they are your enemies, they are also enemies of God. You will face their hostility for a brief time while on this earth. Unless they repent and believe, they will face God’s judgment for all eternity. With this in mind, make sure you respond to your enemies as Peter has instructed:  

…but sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence; and keep a good conscience so that in the thing in which you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ will be put to shame. 1 Peter 3:15–16