Psalm 23:5
“You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.”
I sit and write this entry as I’m not sure if I’ll post it. This passage is not in order of either book. Yesterday I finished school for the year and went to a coworkers retirement party. My wife joined me.
I am humbled as I write this. It was great to see my coworkers in a party setting. Who was also present were some former bosses. One of which I’ve mentioned now and then in my entries. He was against me for some reason back then. I’m not sure why, but for maybe a decade, he was against me. As that began to crescendo God stopped him in a way that only God can do. He wasn’t aware, but a friend in our home group as his boss. She mentioned to him, “Hey, we’re camping with one of your teachers” and she mentioned my name. He was noticeably shocked. That conversation caused him to leave me alone.
Whenever I think of that instant I smile and thank God. He saved me. I’m not sure if he saw me as insignificant or someone he wanted to transfer, but that stopped him. When I saw him yesterday, he didn’t look so good. I waved to him a greeting as we were leaving. Today’s verse felt like a reality. I’m still at the same site and feel like God is blessing me.
I also saw someone at the party who dislikes me and has tried to sully my reputation. I felt something similar. For the past few years this one has been against me. I’m still here with my beautiful wife at my side. I felt enviable.
I realize what I am and very grateful with what God has done with me. I’m an introvert who doesn’t like to be the center of attention. That being said I am not a big wheel at the work place. I am good with that and actually thankful not to have attention brought on me.
While I’m not a big wheel God have given me favor with my students. At the end of the year they give me farewell letters. I am grateful that the Lord uses me in their lives. Even though I’m an introvert they sense I care for them and want them to succeed. I want them to participate, but don’t want to embarrass them. These very small contributions help them feel safe. I also greet them daily. They feel seen and cared for. I can to those things. I feel very blessed and appreciated.
We spoke to some dear people last night. Many of the big wheels like me, but not being a big wheel they gravitate else where. That’s ok. In fact they are doing me a favor. I spend time with those who like me. Those are the ones God uses me with. I don’t have to waste my time and energy with those He doesn’t.
I am humbled to say that I felt enviable. It’s not a competition, but I felt like I won.
Lord, Your Word is true. You have prepared a table for me in the presence of my enemies.
“My cup overflows.” That’s a blessing also from You. Joy fills my heart. I don’t deserve it. Yet, You’ve filled me and my loved ones with joy. With each step through this beautiful world You bless us.
I’m humbled because I’m didn’t complete. I am not trying to win. I am trying to walk humbly with God. Thank You, God.