Finding Strength When God Sets Your Table
When life gets tough, it's easy to feel like giving up. But what if God is preparing something special for you, even in the midst of your struggles? The powerful message of Psalm 23:5 reminds us that God prepares a table before us in the presence of our enemies, anoints our head with oil, and causes our cup to overflow.
Let God Prepare the Table
The first key principle is simple yet profound: let God prepare the table. Too often, we jump into things God never called us to do, then get upset when they fail. We need to understand an important truth:
You Are Not Called to Everything or Everyone
The Psalm specifically mentions that God prepares a table "in the presence of my enemies." This reveals an important truth:
just because people are around you doesn't mean they're for you.
Just because they're at the table doesn't mean they're on your team.
Why would God want your enemies to witness your blessing? Because He wants certain people to see you make it to the next level:
- Those who talked about you
- Those who threw your name around
- Those who talked down to you
- Those who wanted you to fail
God is preparing the table so they can watch you eat - so they can witness your elevation in Christ. This isn't about them sharing in your blessing; it's about God showing His favor through you:
- When they doubted you, God doubled your anointing
- When they counted you out, God added increase
- When they thought you would fail, God carried you
- When they said you'd be nothing, God made you an heir to the throne
Ask yourself these questions this week:
What areas of my life am I trying to control instead of letting God prepare the table?
Who am I trying to help or fix that God may not have called me to?
Am I willing to eat alone if that's what God is asking of me right now?
Can I recognize the preparation season I might be in, even if it feels lonely?
How can I better appreciate God's presence at my table when others have walked away?
Remember, God prepares the table, and you need to be hungry enough to eat alone. The people who are meant to join you will come at the right time. Until then, enjoy the company of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit who sit with you at the table prepared just for you.
When you feel like giving up, remember: It's not over. Don't give up on God, because He won't give up on you.