“Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.” Psalms 23:5
David describes a scene where a host has prepared the dinner table for the guest to sit at and eat. The host has brought to the dinner the enemies of the guest and by having them watch as the guest is able to eat and enjoy himself, they are shown the protected status of the guest. David is saying that this table was prepared for him by the Lord and that the Lord has brought David’s enemies together as a captive audience to watch as the Lord is protecting David.
As David talks about the use of oil, it is important to know that oil was used for many things, in David’s time. A person would use it for healing purposes as well as welcoming guests into their home and even as fuel. So when David writes that God has anointed his head with oil, he is telling those who read this psalm that he knows Who has been providing for him, Who has protected him throughout the years and Who has blessed him as king.
The visual of a cup that is running over with the liquid inside of it is also a way of demonstrating being blessed and provided for. David has used 3 different ways to show that the Lord provides for him, protects him and blesses him within this verse inside the psalm.
How many ways can we say that God has provided for us, protected us and blessed us? I know that there many ways that God has provided for me. I have a job, food, clothes, a home, electricity, a car and people who value and love me. He has protected me by helping me to not enter into relationships that are harmful to me and given me direction about the path I am to be walking. He has blessed me in my profession and my personal relationships.
As you go through your day today, I challenge you to stop and think about all the different ways that God has provided for you, has protected you and has blessed you. You will be amazed at how many ways you will find when you stop and look. Have a wonderful day.