September 2025

A Table in the Presence of Enemies

B. Keith Chapman, President & CEO

David paints a very thought-provoking picture in Psalm 23:5 (KJV), which says, “Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.” A table, carefully prepared by the Lord Himself, in the very presence of our enemies. It is an image, not of fear or isolation, but of divine peace in the middle of conflict. In this passage, God sets the table in front of them. Notice how David doesn’t say, “You remove my enemies,” or even “You protect me from ever seeing them.” Instead, he says, “You prepare a feast for me in the presence of my enemies.” The battle may be intense, our critics may be loud, but our Lord and Savior invites us to sit down and fellowship.

A table is more than just a place to eat. It is a place of fellowship, safety, and belonging. In biblical culture, to be invited to someone’s table meant more than just sharing a meal. It was a gesture of trust and honor. It meant you were welcome, wanted, and under the host’s protection. When God prepares a feast for us, He isn’t merely offering physical food. He is inviting us into a relationship.

An unknown author once wrote, “The enemy wants you to focus on the chaos around the table, but God wants you to focus on the Host at the table.” That statement captures the struggle we often feel. The enemy surrounds us with anxiety, whispers of unworthiness, and the fear of the unknown. God calls us to focus not on our surroundings but on Him -The Host, for He is the One who can protect, provide, and make a way when it seems like there is none. So, when David speaks of a feast in the presence of enemies, it is not just a figurative image. It is a promise. A promise that even when life is hard, God will meet us there. He will provide for our needs and draw us close. And He will remind us that no matter what surrounds us, we are seated with Him and under His protection.

David goes on to say, “You anoint my head with oil.” In biblical times, this was a sign of blessing, healing, and being set apart. It was also a practical way to soothe and protect. Shepherds would anoint sheep to keep pests away and to heal wounds. God does the same for us. He doesn’t just seat us, He heals us. He honors us. He calls us His own. Then David concludes, “My cup overflows with blessings.” That’s not just survival, that is abundance. Even in the presence of enemies, the blessings of God are not held back. In fact, they overflow. Where the enemy seeks to beat us down, God lifts us.

Challenge:

So today, if you feel surrounded by conflict, fear, doubt, or hardship, be encouraged by embracing these simple truths. God is not scrambling to find a safe space for you. He is setting a table. He is inviting you to sit, to rest, and to receive. He wants to feed your mind with truth and remind you that His presence is your protection. Choose each day to focus on the host and not the chaos around the table.

Published: September 1, 2025

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