Thou dost prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies.

Psalm 23:5

God has prepared a table that is laden with everything we have inherited through Christ—every spiritual blessing, every physical blessing, every weapon we will ever need, every provision we will ever need.  All there—laid out for us when we are in the presence of our enemies. The God who spoke this world into existence and created the many species and ecosystems, and gave each exactly what they needed—not only for survival, but also to work in relation to other ecosystems for mutual survival, prepared a table for us … for me! An orderly, lavishly decorated table with everything we have need of, in the face of enemies. Jehovah Jireh—the God who sees ahead and provides for us, even before we are aware we have a need. When the enemy of fear comes against us, all we have to do is look at the table prepared before us and find what God has provided to combat fear—His peace, truth, and the spirit of power and a sound mind.

When the enemy of pain or sickness comes against us, we can find on this table the healing Christ paid for on the cross.

Whatever enemy comes against us—trials, distresses, financial burdens, relationship problems, addictions, worry—whatever the enemy sends our way, there on the table we will find the perfect weapon to use to defeat that enemy and stand victorious. The table is piled to overflowing, a banquet prepared by the Lord. And all we have to do is believe and feast on His provision.

I heard someone the other day explain the difference between simply eating a meal and dining.  Dining is an experience usually shared with others. Not just the drive thru dinner we might grab because our lives are so busy but a refreshing, relaxing time with a meal well planned and a table set out nicely. That God would provide this for us even in the presence of our enemies is a reminder that God is bigger than any enemy that comes against us and fellowship with Him will provide nourishment for us and protection for us.

So, let’s pull up to the table and feast on the goodness of God! 

Thank You for desiring to dine with me and offer rest and nourishment when I am in need of both. I don’t have to fight this battle alone. What an amazing dinner companion You are. Thank You for providing the weapons I need to stand firm against the enemy. What do I need to fear when You have provided all I need for victory? Your graciousness knows no bounds, help me to relax in Your presence and be fed from Your abundant provision. In Jesus’s name,  amen.

pic credit: Christianity