God gives us abundance and welcome, and His goodness follows us all our days.
“Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.”Psalm 23:5-6 (KJV)
What does “Table prepared” mean in Psalm 23:5-6?
In David's world, a host who prepared a table for a guest was promising protection and friendship. David pictures God as that host, even in front of his enemies.
Going deeper
The picture shifts again in the last two verses, from a shepherd with a flock to a host with a guest. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies. God does not remove the enemies, but He sets a feast in their sight. Then comes a remarkable image: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. A guest with an overflowing cup is a guest whose host is generous. The point is welcome, and more than enough.
The psalm ends with confidence about the future: surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life. Notice the verb. They follow, like two faithful companions who never leave. And the destination is the house of the LORD for ever. Thank God today for a specific way His goodness and mercy have followed you this past year. Gratitude helps us see what was already there, and it prepares us to trust Him for what is ahead.
Reflect
How have goodness and mercy followed you this past year?
Pray
Lord, thank You for preparing a table for me and for letting goodness and mercy follow me. Fill my cup, and teach me to be grateful. In Jesus' name, amen.
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