In the {Book of Psalms, chapter 83, verse 3} (KJV), we encounter a powerful verse that reads, "They have taken crafty counsel against thy people, and consulted against thy hidden ones." This verse encapsulates the ongoing spiritual battle faced by God's people throughout history. The imagery within the verse speaks not only to the schemes of adversarial forces but to the profound truth of our identity as God's cherished and hidden ones in the world.

The phrase "crafty counsel" suggests a calculated and deceptive effort by those who would oppose God and His purposes. This resonates with the whisperings of evil found throughout the Bible. From the serpent deceiving Eve in the Garden of Eden to the plots against Jesus during His earthly ministry, the crafty counsel of the wicked is a constant theme. It reminds us that there are those who conspire not just against individuals but against the very essence of God's people, the Church.

When we reflect on "consulted against thy hidden ones," we are confronted with our identity in God. The Bible tells us in John 3:16 that God loves each one of us, yet the world often does not see that love reflected in a way that aligns with its expectations. Here lies the challenge: the hidden ones are both known by God and often overlooked by the world. We are called to be champions of truth amid an environment brimming with deceit.

As believers, we find solace and strength in the fact that we are not hidden to God. In fact, our hiddenness is a profound blessing and a place of divine protection. God knows our every struggle, our deepest fears, and our heart's desires. In Psalm 139:1-4, David praises God, saying, "O Lord, thou hast searched me, and known me. Thou knowest my downsitting and mine uprising, thou understandest my thought afar off. Thou compassest my path and my lying down, and art acquainted with all my ways. For there is not a word in my tongue, but, lo, O Lord, thou knowest it altogether." God’s omniscience assures us that no weapon formed against us will prosper because He is aware of every plot against us.

Additionally, being part of the "hidden ones" signifies a divine calling to operate in the boundaries of God's will, often in unseen or unrecognized ways. In a world that prizes visibility and fame, we are reminded that greatness in the Kingdom of God often occurs behind the scenes. The impact of prayer, service, and obedience is often invisible to the world yet profoundly powerful in the spiritual realm.

In our modern context, as we observe divisions, conspiracies, and deceit perpetrated against one another and to undermine the truth, we must remind ourselves of our role as the 'hidden ones.' Our response is not one of desperation but should be rooted in confidence and hope. We are encouraged not to seek revenge against those who plot harm, as stated in Romans 12:19: "Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord." Instead, our battle is spiritual and requires prayer, intercession, and igniting the power of God’s word in our lives and those around us.

Let us resolve to be vigilant and prayerful, recognizing the schemes of the enemy without falling into fear. Instead of being dismayed, we must lift our eyes to the Almighty. Proverbs 3:5-6 states, "Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths."

In conclusion, Psalm 83:3 serves as a powerful reminder of our identity in Christ as well as the threats we face. Yet, we are assured that nothing can separate us from the love of God. We are His hidden ones, cloaked in His grace, shielded by His mighty hand as we navigate through the crafty counsels of the world. In times of opposition and darkness, let us shine the light of Christ, confident that we are seen, known, and deeply loved by our eternal God.