Trusting God

You prepare a feast for me
    in the presence of my enemies.
You honor me by anointing my head with oil.
    My cup overflows with blessings. Psalm 23:5 NLT

Do you have enemies?

Usually when I think of an enemy, I think of battle, a clearly defined foe. However, enemies come in all shapes and sizes. Sometimes our worst enemies turn out to be those closest to us; a sort of wolf in sheep’s clothing.

As I meditate on this verse, my mind goes back to the beginning of this Psalm that says, “The Lord is my shepherd; I have all that I need.” The shepherd provides EVERY need the sheep have, including protection from enemies. This verse says that He will provide a feast for me in the presence of my enemies.

When I think of a feast, it brings to mind celebration, fellowship, and plenty. It is an incredible comfort to me to know that my Shepherd not only provides all that I need but does it in the midst of my enemies. I can personally testify that God has done just that for me in the past. In the middle of trials, hardships, and opposition from those who don’t believe and trust the same. God has provided reasons to celebrate and give Him praise; He has brought fellowship and encouragement from like-minded believers; and I can honestly say I have always had enough.

You honor me by anointing my head with oil.
    My cup overflows with blessings.

In our western culture, we don’t normally understand the concept of anointing someone’s head with oil. This was a common practice in biblical times and was usually reserved for the most honored, highly esteemed guest. This oil was most likely mixed with perfumes and was used to refresh and soothe the guest who was weary from travel.

Consider this as you reread this verse, King David was God’s honored guest. David knew that not only was God’s blessing and protection on him in this life, he would be sitting at the Lord’s table into eternity. An honored guest of the KIng of Kings and Lord of Lords. His cup could not contain the blessings God had in store for him.

I encourage you to draw strength from this promise. Even when the enemies are overwhelming and fierce, God prepares a table for you, anoints your weary head, and pours out abundant blessings.

Check out Romans 8:31-39 for further confirmation and elaboration of this promise.