You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Psalm 23:5 (NIV)
Life has a way of being the best of times and the worst of times simultaneously. With any measure of success, new trials and tests come along as well. Yet God will give you increase of anointing when you are under pressure.
Getting to the prepared place is worth celebrating but it’s only half the equation. Can you enjoy the place while surrounded by your enemies?
If we are not careful, many of us will allow the hostile forces to drive us from the place. It is then we need the guidance of the good shepherd. He will train you to eat and enjoy His abundance in the midst of your enemies.
You can’t want for your surroundings to change to enjoy the place He has put you in. Conditions do not have to change or be favorable for you to enjoy the prepared place.
Are you waiting for everything to look good and flow smoothly before you enjoy your place prepared ? Well we shouldn’t because God never promised that we would not face trying times. But His word does promise that He will never leave us or forsake us and that overwhelming victory belongs to us.
photo credit: 27147 via photo pin cc
This post is a part of the Psalms 23 Reflection Series.
Wanda, if I say what I’m feeling right now you may think I’m crazy. All of this week I’ve been looking at how many times Jesus mentioned being prepared, whether facing friend or foe. He seemed to be constantly trying to teach the apostles that concept. All of this, together with your words here today, is teaching me something.
LaVonne, you’re always free to speak what you’re thinking here. You have a way of helping me see beyond what I initially seen. Don’t keep all the good lessons to yourself 😉
AMEN! Love this post! What more can I say, except, “Thank you!”~Cynthia
Thanks Cynthia 🙂
I’ve always loved that verse, as well as the entire 23rd Psalm! And I plan to make my way to the table with scuffed knees and bruised knuckles and torn and dirty clothes.
Yes with scuffed knees and all there is a prepared place for each of us.
Dearest Wanda,
You’ve given me a lot to think about here. I do believe that I’m waiting for the enemy to leave before I enjoy the place the Lord has provided.
Thank you for challenging me today.
Many blessings in Christ. Susan
Praying for you as I pray for myself that we will find peace and enjoyment in the place God has prepared for us despite what other inhabitants may be present. Have a great weekend Susan.
I am so thankful to know that I can reap the abundance of the Lord even when it seems all has been taken from me. He draws me in and ask me to come, to sit, to eat at His table. He will give back what the enemy has stolen!
I just love the imagery of this first because it reminds me that God has us. We don’t have to eat on the run. He invites of us to come sit and dine despite all the chaos around us.
You share a truth here, Wanda, that I hadn’t considered. I always find food for thought at your blog table. 🙂
My pleasure to share among such friends as you Pam.
Wow Wanda this spoke volumes to me~ I have this feeling when it comes to being creative around my family~ There is always a way they distract me…I don’t even want to do it, when they are around! I’m slowly moving forward, but it is tough! Thank you for this great post 😀
I love the truth of this post! Often we miss the wonders of God’s protection because we are looking at the external conditions! God Bless you Wanda! –Sebastian