How can we apply the concept of anointing in our daily Christian lives? Ancient Picture, Timeless Truth “Take the anointing oil and anoint him by pouring it on his head.” (Exodus 29:7) Moses poured fragrant oil on Aaron to mark him as God’s priest. The act was literal, physical, and public—declaring, “This one is set apart for the Lord’s service.” New–Covenant Fulfillment • Acts 10:38—“God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power.” • 2 Corinthians 1:21-22—“He who establishes us with you in Christ and has anointed us is God, who has also sealed us and given us the Spirit in our hearts as a pledge.” • 1 John 2:20—“You have an anointing from the Holy One.” The oil pointed ahead to the Holy Spirit, now personally indwelling every believer. The symbol has become reality: God Himself sets us apart, empowers us, and marks us as His own. Everyday Ways to Walk in the Anointing Consecration • Start each morning acknowledging, “Lord, all I am is Yours.” (Romans 12:1) • Guard what you watch, read, and speak; a consecrated vessel stays clean for the Master’s use. Empowerment • Before tasks—large or small—ask the Spirit for skill and boldness (Philippians 4:13). • Expect divine help in parenting, employment, ministry, and witness; rely on His strength, not mere talent. Discernment • 1 John 2:27—“His anointing teaches you about all things.” Pause and listen when facing choices; Scripture and the Spirit will steer you. • Test every voice against the Word; the anointing never contradicts Scripture. Service • Jesus washed feet after being anointed with the Spirit (John 13). Look for humble, often unseen ways to bless people daily. • Spiritual gifts (1 Peter 4:10-11) flow best through servants, not celebrities. Healing Prayer • James 5:14 guides elders to “pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord.” Keep a small vial of olive oil handy for those who request prayer. The oil is not magic; it outwardly expresses faith in God’s healing power. Household Blessing • In Scripture, anointing consecrated objects as well as people (Exodus 30:26-29). Some believers touch a doorframe or child’s forehead with oil while praying Christ’s lordship over the home. It is a tangible reminder that every room and relationship belongs to Him. Joyful Confidence • Psalm 23:5—“You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.” The Spirit’s presence brings overflow: gratitude, peace, and resilient joy that daily circumstances cannot cancel. Guarding the Treasure • Stay in close fellowship with believers; isolation can dull spiritual sensitivity (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Quench not the Spirit by harboring unconfessed sin (1 Thessalonians 5:19). Quick repentance keeps the flow fresh. • Keep Scripture central. The same God who inspired the Word empowered you for obedience (John 14:26). Living it Out Today Anointing is not reserved for ancient priests or special occasions. It is the present reality of every Christian—set apart, Spirit-filled, and sent into daily life. Embrace it each morning, lean on it each moment, and watch God turn ordinary tasks into holy ground. |