The Table of Grace
Psalm 23 is a highly favored passage of scripture. It is almost always recited at funerals and often memorized by youth for church competitions. Sadly, for some people, this is the only chapter in the Bible that they know! I have met a number of people who are not even Christian, yet still have a deep appreciation for its beautiful style and comforting words.
When I read Psalm 23, I am reminded of the Christian journey. It begins with confessing and acknowledging that "The Lord is my Shepherd" (v. 1). It is only then that one can experience rest from the bondage of sin, restoration for his soul, and is placed on the "paths of righteousness for His name's sake" (vv. 2–3). Along the way, the believer not only experiences mountaintops of success but also dark valleys of suffering; however, it is in these times that God's faithfulness is manifested and His presence is all the more real (v. 4). In verse 6, there is a future promise that the Christian will one day "dwell in the house of the Lord forever."
What I would like to focus on, though, is verse 5, which states: "Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies; thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over." What does such "preparation" mean for the believer? It is a description of the banquet of blessings and grace that God gives every day. Many Christians fail to realize the true abundance they have in Christ! In describing the oil, the Amplified Version states:
"It is difficult for those living in a temperate climate to appreciate, but it was customary in hot climates to anoint the body with oil to protect it from excessive perspiration. When mixed with perfume, the oil imparted a delightfully refreshing and invigorating sensation. Athletes anointed their bodies as a matter of course before running a race. As the body, therefore, anointed with oil was refreshed, invigorated, and better fitted for action, so the Lord would anoint His 'sheep' with the Holy Spirit, whom oil symbolizes, to fit them to engage more freely in His service and run in what He directs—in heavenly fellowship with Him."
The devil wants us to look at the Christian life like we are starving, alone, and simply fighting in our own power to "make do" and somehow please the Lord. This is not the case! Ask God to open the eyes of your heart that you might fully realize the glorious victory and continual provisions that He gives through the indwelling of His Spirit. Do you truly believe that there is already a lavish table of grace and joy spread before you here and now, through the Spirit's power?
