You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. Psalm 23:5
David managed his sheep and led them in strong confidence. His sheep were taken to the best pastures in the region so they could feast on the most delicious grass and sip on the purest spring water. Some of the places David led his sheep in order to find such delicacies were low laying meadows and canyons. David was well aware that the terrain presented threats to his sheep, but he was watchful and intentional about his leading.
Even with a vantage point and clear view of the sheep, predators could only glare from a distance. They knew the shepherd was near and there would be no chance to pick off a meal for themselves. They knew the shepherd would lay down his life for his sheep. So, David’s sheep grazed freely–even in the presence of their enemies. They lived in the assurance of his care and were able to focus on the blessing of the banquet feast spread before them, not in fear of the threat in front of them. David’s sheep learned to find peace in the midst of turmoil and dangers of life.
Like sheep, we too can trust fully in our Shepherds care. Being in the Great Shepherds care doesn’t mean we will be trouble free or that there will be no threat or opposition. It means even when we encounter adversity, our Lords sustaining grace and His deep love for us will help us face all our enemies in this life with the confidence that He is by our side.
Has God got your back? Is your relationship with Him close enough that you can trust in His care and feast behind enemy lines? If not, maybe you have distanced yourself from Him. Maybe you should take a couple of steps back toward the Great Shepherd place yourself under His care again. May you find peace in your relationship with God today.