“You prepare a table before me in the
presence of my enemies.” Psalm 23:5
The Apostle Paul quotes the Lord Jesus in
Acts 20:35 as saying; “It is more blessed to
give than to receive.” For many of us giving
is much easier. And it’s more fun to give!
Most of us feel out of place when friends
gather around and sing us Happy Birthday!
Especially at our favorite restaurant! Ugh!
Admittedly I would much rather give than
receive. But at times it is good to receive.
Years ago, a good friend was trying to bless
me with a gift. When I tried to persuade her
not to, she abruptly said, “Don’t steal my
blessing!” She helped me learn to receive.
Thank you, Lord, for giving friends and
family! They remind me of You!
In November of ’21, the church I had served
for 25 years as their pastor honored both my
wife Christy and I with a banquet. There
was lots of great food, wonderful church
family, friends and many surprise guests.
We were brought to tears by the testimonies,
memories of special moments, and lives
changed through our ministry. It was a very
humbling experience.
This is the picture that comes to mind with
the verse above. The Lord is honoring His
devoted servant with a banquet. The table
has been prepared with delicious foods,
sweet treats, and festive drinks. Surrounded
by close friends and family, the honoree
even has his enemies present.
The Lord was graciously demonstrating the
favored status of His servant in front of his
adversaries to give him encouragement.
Sometimes it seems evil intended people
always prosper. But the truth is, it is an
illusion. They may look good on the outside
but inside they are full of greed and self-
indulgence. (Mt. 23:25) It is good when the
righteous can feel affirmed.
By honoring the faithful servant God was
helping the adversaries see their own
arrogance and envy. Seeing the truth of
oneself in the mirror is one thing but having
the Lord reveal our evil heart is another.
God had a purpose for including enemies in
the banquet. Hopefully they will feel
convicted of their evil intent.
Our faithful Shepherd takes care of all of our
needs. He provides immeasurably more than
we ask or imagine. With Him leading,
guiding, and directing our lives we shall
ever be content if we are faithful to follow.
We only struggle when we wander off or
choose a different path. This is our cue.
So, how’s life? Are you at peace? Or is
every day a struggle? Are you on His path or
yours?
Verifying my GPS…Bro. Sherman
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