Simply the Bible Blog

“Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies.”(Psalm 23.5)

Opposition: there is never a time when we are without it. Anyone who chooses to follow the Shepherd will soon discover that there is “push-back”. Often this is felt through people who are antagonistic. They don’t share your beliefs; they speak against you; they resist you; they hate you.

When sheep graze in the field, one can only imagine the predators on the sidelines waiting to gobble them up. Lions and wolves and thieves, oh my! What’s a poor helpless lamb to do?

It is the shepherd’s responsibility to protect the sheep from these enemies. He does this, not be removing the flock from their presence, but by protecting the sheep from them. While the sheep are gathered under the shepherd’s watchful eye, they have confidence that any predators have to go through him first. The same rod that he uses to keep his sheep in line is a formidable weapon against their foes.

But in this verse David is not concerned with his enemies being slain as much as he is being well-fed before them. The table is a green pasture where sheep can grow strong and healthy while the devouring lion licks his chops nearby.

What a picture of the Shepherd’s protection and provision! We need not fear. Though our adversary the devil is waiting for the opportunity to devour us, while we are in the care of our Shepherd, neither he nor his minions can touch us. He can only watch from a distance with hunger and hatred, as we, the beloved of the Shepherd, grow stronger and stronger.

“So we can confidently say, ‘The Lord is my helper; I will not fear; what can man do to me?’” (Hebrews 13.6)

Have you made Him your Shepherd?