“You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.” Psalm 23:5
February 2, 2023
First of all we must picture the scene. The image of a shepherd and sheep gives way to a banquet table with a lavish array of food set before a faithful servant of God. God is the host. Fresh bread, sparkling wine, fruit of all kinds. It all takes place before powerless enemies who are unable to prevent the enjoyment of God’s generous hospitality (ESV Study Bible). Is this some kind of victory banquet with the enemies of God’s faithful warrior a “captive audience?” We don’t know. But before coming into the banquet hall David smells the fragrance of olive oil and perfume refreshing his hair. The hot arid climate makes it especially enjoyable. A generous supply of wine is waiting to slake his thirst. The picture tells us that the Lord provides for His faithful warriors who have fought for the establishment of God’s kingdom. Such is the theme of the Psalms. We who belong to King Jesus are to rejoice in the midst of the pressures and dangers of life. How delightful is the table of God’s sustaining power as we put on the whole armor of God. The Lord is our host. Do I hear an amen?!
H
“It is one thing to survive a threat, as in verse 4; quite another to turn it into triumph.” Derek Kidner