A full plate, or a cup running over

The word picture in the title of this post, is intended to contrast a life burdened and preoccupied with a multitude of problems, with a life of abundance of provision, energy peace and grace. I meet people all the time those plates overflow with trials and tribulations, and as a consequence whose cup is not running over. For many the only time the cup runs over is, to coin a phrase from the musical Oklahoma, “when everything’s going their way!”

The phrase “my cup runs over,” is of course taken from Psalm 23, the Shepherd's psalm. When the Lord is your Shepherd (verse 1), even when your plate is full, even when you walk through the valley of the shadow of death, you have the resources not only to come through without fear, not only to survive such a threat, but to come through with your cup overflowing with peace and joy and assurance (verse 5).

In talking about this with a dear friend who has a very full plate and is struggling greatly, we essentially discussed the need to cooperate with the Shepherd as He leads us to the still waters of time spent with Him (verse 2), and of feeding from nourishment in the green pastures of His Word (also verse 2). And I was caused to remember again the hard learned lesson, that we do not know that God is all we need until God is all we have.

Father, I want to thank You this morning that You have promised never to leave us nor forsake us, and that we need to learn to understand that a full plate is a crossroads. We either allow ourselves to be offended, or we allow You to draw us close to obtain fresh grace. Help me this morning Lord, and those reading this post, to always choose the latter course. And we will give You all the honour, glory and praise in Jesus Name Amen