Psalm 23:5 Sit at God’s Table

This is my favorite verse in Psalm 23. Why? Because it reveals God’s grace and loving care, and it doesn’t depend on me or on my choices.


God is faithful and true to His character, whether we are faithful or not. Even in our disobedience, God is with us and cares for us.


David knows a lot about enemies, even though he is young. He serves King Saul who is plagued by evil spirits and, quite often, Saul turns against him and attacks him. As David gets older, he leads King Saul’s armies out to face Israel’s fierce enemies and defeats them. 


Through it all, David relies on God. He doesn’t assume God will give him earthly victory, but he knows God is there to sustain him and to provide protection for him. 




You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. 
What a comforting picture, especially when we feel like we are surrounded by enemies. He prepares a table – a table where we can sit and catch our breaths for a bit. 
A table full of the food of Scripture to sustain us. A table with the cooling, refreshing water of His presence to encourage us.  


You anoint my head with oil.
Oil symbolizes richness, honor; it shows how much the anointer cherishes the person he anoints. 
God Himself anoints David. 
God Himself anoints us as we sit at His table. He expresses how cherished we are to Him. Though we might be surrounded by enemies, He anoints us with the richness of His strength, courage, and the assurance of certain victory in Christ. 


My [David’s] cup overflows.
David could make no greater statement of faith and gratitude to his Lord. 
How often do I praise God for His goodness in the midst of my enemies?
Even in difficult circumstances, our cups overflow with God’s love, sustaining power, and strength. When we are exhausted, we are refreshed and restored by His presence. 


What tender care the Father bestows on us in our time of need. Often we’re too focused on the need to see how much He cherishes us. A deep love that led Jesus to the cross and anoints us with His presence every day.


How has God fed you at His table in difficult times?