Living in the Overflow

by Erin Sanchez

“You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” – Psalm 23:5-6

Psalm 23 crescendos with this powerful image of abundance: a prepared table, anointing oil, and an overflowing cup. David moves from speaking about valleys and shadows to celebrating the lavish goodness of God. Goodness that has no end, even to eternity. 

This isn’t just about surviving the challenges of life—it’s about thriving in the midst of them. It’s a picture of God’s extravagant provision, even in the face of adversity.

As we reflect on this verse, we’re invited to step into life with confidence and gratitude, trusting that God’s goodness is not limited by our circumstances.

A Table in the Midst of Opposition

Imagine a banquet table, beautifully set and overflowing with nourishment and delight. Now imagine this table smack dab in the middle of a war zone. It’s a startling image, isn’t it? But this is exactly what God does. He prepares a feast for us—a celebration of His provision and faithfulness—in the very presence of our challenges. It’s an image of peace and complete trust; while chaos wages war around us, we can sit in confidence and rest at the banquet table of the Lord.

This isn’t a table for hiding or retreating. It’s a declaration that God’s power and goodness triumphs over opposition. Whatever you’re facing—whether it’s fear, doubt, or external pressures—God’s table is there, inviting you to sit, eat, and be filled. 

The presence of enemies doesn’t diminish the feast; it magnifies the Shepherd’s ability to sustain and to provide.

Anointed and Chosen

David continues by saying, “You anoint my head with oil.” In Biblical times, anointing with oil symbolized favor, blessing, and being set apart. Shepherds also anointed their sheep with oil to protect them from pests and wounds.

A Cup That Overflows

The image of an overflowing cup speaks of abundance—a life filled beyond measure with God’s blessings. This isn’t just about material provision; it’s about spiritual richness, joy, peace, and the deep satisfaction that comes from knowing God.

Sometimes, we live as if we’re holding an empty cup, desperately trying to fill it ourselves. But David’s words remind us that God doesn’t just fill our cup—He causes it to overflow. His blessings aren’t rationed or limited. They flow freely, spilling over into every area of our lives and touching those around us. And it delights His Father heart to do this.

Living in overflow means embracing the truth that God is more than enough. It’s a call to stop striving and start receiving, to trust that His goodness is greater than our needs or circumstances.

Chased Down by Goodness

David had his fair share of sins; grievous ones. And yet, we continually see that his Psalms are written from a confidence in his belovedness with the Lord. David wrote Psalm 23 after his sins with Bathsheba. And yet he confidently pens, “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” 

Psalm 23 is not only an encouragement to us in the midst of circumstances outside of ourselves, it’s an encouragement to us of what God gives unconditionally. When we have sinned, when we have messed things up, when our choices yield outcomes we didn’t anticipate, we can always return with repentant and thankful hearts to the One who’s opinion and love of us never changes. Mercy and goodness will chase us down, just like the father of the prodigal son who ran to greet his wayward son and welcome him home.

Psalm 23 is an invitation to yield to the Good Shepherd in circumstances both done to us and those created by us. It’s a demonstration of the eternal love of the Father for His children. We can walk confidently in our standing with the Lord, knowing that Romans 5:1 is a daily, never-expiring truth for us: We have peace with God.

Let Psalm 23 remind you that you lack nothing in the Lord. He has given you (and paid for!) all you need, and you will never be in want because “no good thing does He withhold (Psalm 84:11).” Now walk with a bold confidence and faith! The Good Shepherd is with you!

Reflection Questions:

1. Are you sitting at the table God has prepared for you, or are you standing in the chaos of fear or doubt?
2. How can you embrace the truth of God’s anointing and His abundant provision in your life? How can you hang onto the knowledge that you are fully beloved and right with Him?
3. In what ways can you allow the overflow of God’s blessings to impact those around you?

Take heart: Sisters, we lack NOTHING. While the Shepherd might be leading you through the valley—He’s ultimately bringing you to a place of abundance. Sit at His table, receive His anointing, and let your cup overflow. God’s goodness is for you, and His blessings are more than enough. Let this truth inspire you to live with confidence, gratitude, and joy, knowing that your Shepherd has prepared every good thing for you.