As we delve into Psalm 83:12 in the King James Version, we encounter a significant proclamation: "Who said, Let us take to ourselves the houses of God in possession." This verse resonates with the age-old struggle between the forces of good and evil, and the desire of those opposed to God to assert dominion over what belongs to Him.

### The Context of the Verse

Psalm 83 is a cry for help from the psalmist—a lamentation expressing the urgency of God’s intervention against the enemies of Israel. The psalmist names various nations and peoples who conspire against God’s chosen. The charge they bring forth, as articulated in verse 12, reflects an intention to claim ownership over God’s dwelling places— His people, His temple, and His promises.

In contemplating the phrase "the houses of God," we recognize that this is not limited to physical structures like temples or churches. Instead, we are challenged to consider what it means to possess a relationship with God, to partake in His kingdom, and to recognize His spirit dwelling within us. This verse brings to light both the privilege and the responsibility we have as God's people.

### The Importance of Possessing God’s House

To possess God's house is to understand ourselves as His rightful inheritance. Ephesians 2:19-22 tells us, "Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God; And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone; In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord: In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit."

It is crucial to recognize that God desires to let us dwell with Him, just as He has chosen to dwell within us. The notion of possession here is twofold: God possesses us as His beloved children, and we, in turn, must be ready to possess His ways as reflected in our lives. This mutual possession implies both dependence and yielding to His will.

### Guarding Against the Enemy

Reflecting on Psalm 83:12, we can see that the intent of the surrounding nations was to strip away the identity, security, and presence of God among His people. This sentiment is echoed in modern times where various ideologies and influences seek to undermine our relationship with God, attempting to claim our hearts and minds as their own.

We must be vigilant and conscious of the areas in our lives that might be susceptible to these claims. The enemy, who has sought for centuries to seize control, is relentless in his pursuits. However, we should take comfort in knowing that God has already established His claim over us—through Christ’s sacrifice, we are marked and owned by Him. As stated in 1 Corinthians 6:19-20: "What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s."

### Our Call to Action

In light of this understanding, our call to action is clear: we must actively choose to possess the house of God in our daily lives. This entails investing in our spiritual growth, ensuring that our homes are places of prayer and worship, and fostering unity in the body of Christ. We must be proactive in nurturing our relationship with God, participating in His mission, and guarding against anything that seeks to withdraw us from His presence.

### Conclusion

The desire to possess the houses of God, as articulated in Psalm 83:12, invites us to examine not only the threats from the outside but also our internal stewarding of what has been entrusted to us. It compels us to embrace our identity in Christ and take ownership of our faith journey. Let us not allow the claims of the enemy to distract or deter us. Instead, let us confidently assert our place in God’s house, continually seeking to grow in grace and reflect His glory in all that we do.