"You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies;" Psalm 23:5a
In the Old Testament to eat and drink at someones table symbolized loyalty and covenant. I love the picture that David is painting here. It's the image of God setting a lavish table before us in covenant relationship.
If you have ever hosted someone in your home you know that preparation is involved. If I invite you over for dinner, for instance, I would try to discover beforehand what your favorite food is. What you love to drink. The types of dessert that make your mouth water. And any other special element I could think of that would make your time at my table memorable.
God does the same for us. The word prepare means to make ready beforehand for some purpose, use or activity. God doesn't just throw a glass of water and crust of bread at you, He's preparing for you.
And He is preparing for you not in the presence of your family and friends, but in the presence of your enemies. That's a bold statement. He is standing by your side in the midst of those who would want to do you harm.
As we attempt to take in all this meaning, I read a translation more word for word from the original Hebrew and I pray it blessed your heart. Here's what it said:
"You will put in order and arrange a meal spread out on the table in front of my face. Boldly showing this in front of my enemy that is pressing in on me."
You have a seat at God's table. He's preparing it just for you.
Love,
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