You Prepare a Table

You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; My cup runs over.
Psalms 23:5 NKJV

You prepare a table before me: Don't forget the previous picture of the valley of the shadow of death, David envisioned the provision and goodness given by the LORD as a host, inviting David to a rich table with a meal fit for a king prepared for him.

David gives a beautiful picture: “table” suggests bounty; “prepare” suggests foresight and care; “before me” suggests the personal connection.

In the presence of my enemies: This is a striking phrase. The goodness and care suggested by the prepared table is set right in the midst of the presence of my enemies. The Great Shepherd’s care and concern doesn’t eliminate the presence of my enemies but enables the experience of God’s goodness and bounty even in their midst.

Jesus said that we would have tribulation in the world but to be of good cheer because He has already overcome it (John 16:33). For the submitted servant of God there will always be conflict but always a prepared table before him. Choose to remain submitted to the LORD even in the midst of your turmoil.

Charles Spurgeon said, “When a soldier is in the presence of his enemies, if he eats at all he snatches a hasty meal, and away he hastens to the fight. But observe: ‘Thou preparest a table,’ just as a servant does when she unfolds the damask cloth and displays the ornaments of the feast on an ordinary peaceful occasion. Nothing is hurried, there is no confusion, no disturbance. The enemy is at the door and yet God prepares a table, and the Christian sits down and eats as if everything were in perfect peace.” (Spurgeon)

You anoint my head with oil; my cup runs over: Despite the surrounding dangers and the presence of enemies, David enjoyed the richness of his host’s goodness. He was refreshed by a head anointed with oil; his cup was over-filled.