This Week’s Message Notes
November 9, 2025
Living in the Goodness of God, Pt 9 - “How God Lifts Me Up When I’m Worn Down”
“You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies.” Psalm 23:5a
WHAT KIND OF BANQUET IS THIS?
· “You” God is the host
· “Prepare a table” a planned banquet
· “before me” I am the guest of honor
· “In the presence” a public banquet
· “of my enemies” a banquet during a battle
WHAT FORCES OPPOSE GOD’S BEST FOR ME?
1. The world around you.
“In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33b (NIV)
2. Satan is against me.
“Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour.”
1 Peter 5:8
3. My old nature inside me.
“I have discovered this principle of life—that when I want to do what is right, I inevitably do what is wrong. I love God’s law with all my heart. But there is another power within me that is at war with my mind. This power makes me a slave to the sin that is still within me.” Romans 7:21-23
WHAT DOES THIS BANQUET SYMBOLIZE?
1. God wants and welcomes fellowship with me.
“But you’ll welcome us with open arms when we run for cover to you. Let the party last all night! Stand guard over our celebration.” Psalm 5:11 (MSG)
2. God wants to bless me to show the world his goodness.
“You are wonderful, and while everyone watches, you store up blessings for all who honor and trust you.” Psalm 31:19 (NCV)
WHAT’S ON THE MENU?
Everything God has promised in his Word.
“Your promises are sweet to me, sweeter than honey in my mouth!” Psalm 119:103 (NCV)
“Taste and see that the Lord is good. Oh, the joys of those who take refuge in him!” Psalm 34:8
(Unless otherwise indicated, all scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation second edition, copyright 1996, 2004, 2007, 2013 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Message adapted from pastors.com