Psalm 23:5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies: you anoint my head with oil; my cup runs over. I. DAVID HAD BEEN ANOINTED TO KINGSHIP. All Christians are kings, even as all Christians are priests; but kings only anointed not crowned, as they are priests ordained, not yet admitted to celestial ministries; and though the ordination to priestly service be now the more prominent honour, it is not such as to distrust or overshadow the kingly name and destiny. II. DAVID HAD BEEN ANOINTED FROM ON HIGH. David's crown was a sure one, and surer than that already worn by Saul; and so is every Christian's. God's purposes in providence and grace are sure as the seasons and the sun. The kingship of every believer rests not on his own might or wisdom, not on the counsels and plans of his fellow men, but on the irreversible and sovereign grace of God. III. DAVID HAD BEEN ANOINTED TO PRESENT RULE, AS WELL AS FUTURE HONOUR. He had forthwith to rule himself as a preparation for ruling others. IV. DAVID WAS ANOINTED OF THE SPIRIT. With the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the Lord. V. DAVID WAS ANOINTED IN SECRET. The anointing of David was not a public act. VI. DAVID WAS ANOINTED WITH THE OIL OF JOY. Oil was a symbol of joy. "And oil to make his face to shine." Of Messiah it is said, "Thy God hath anointed Thee with the oil of gladness above Thy fellows." (John Stoughton, D. D.) Parallel Verses KJV: Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. |
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