Jesus Is Making Me Dinner

Psalm 23:5 is a picture of Jesus’ shepherding care during a time of extreme difficulty, when you are surrounded by enemies (which in this case could mean any trial or especially hard time).

It’s natural to hope that Jesus will show up in a time of trial and circumstances will immediately change – your enemies disappear, your prayers are answered, and everything is made right.

But it doesn’t always happen like that, does it?

Where is Jesus when you face battles of many kinds?

In this verse, we see a picture where enemies surround, and Jesus is also there. The Savior and the struggle are both present at the same time. But Jesus is doing something perhaps unexpected: He is making dinner.

Imagine Jesus pulling a sizzling dish out of the oven. It feels almost absurd to feast here, on a battlefield. But that’s where you are, that’s where Jesus, your Shepherd, comes to nourish, refill and revive you. He pours new strength and fresh life into you. As The Message Translation says,

“You revive my drooping head; my cup brims with blessing.”

So, no — maybe He doesn’t show up in a cloud of fire and cut the heads off your enemies. He doesn’t wield a sword and bring the fight to an end with a swift swoosh. He doesn’t dazzle you with a display of His astounding strength and power, at least not this time. No… He comes to serve you. He prepares you a feast and lays the table.

If you are facing a battle of any kind right now – loneliness, grief, broken relationships, heartache, or anything else – let this image comfort your heart. Your Shepherd prepares a table for you in the middle of the challenge. No matter what you are up against, He is with you in it, and He is faithful to you in the midst of it.

How has God met you in difficult times in the past? Where have you seen Him come through for you with provision and nourishment? Take time to remind yourself today. The same Shepherd who was with you before will continue to meet your needs in every battle you face.