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We have here -

I. A VERY BLESSED THING SPOKEN OF. Under this emblem the Holy Spirit is set forth (Luke 4:18).

1. The holy oil told of was especially sacred. (See Exodus 30:33; Psalm 89:20.)

2. It enobled those on whom it was poured. Constituting them prophets, princes, priests.

3. It invigorated and empowered for high service. This is especially true of the Holy Spirit (Luke 24:49).

4. It was a bond of union. (Psalm 133:1, 2.) And so the Holy Spirit (John 17:21; Ephesians 4:3).

5. It is gladdening. (Psalm 23:5; Hebrews 1:9.)

6. Illuminating. (1 John 2:27.)

7. Sweetly fragrant. (John 12:3.) In all these and yet other respects did the holy oil tell of the blessed Spirit of God.

II. A VERY JOYFUL CONFIDENCE EXPRESSED. "I shall be anointed," etc. He does not say, "I hope;" but he is sure of what he affirms. Now, the grounds of this confidence are:

1. That it rested on God. He could not have spoken thus had it been resting only on man.

2. We are united with Christ, the Anointed One. "Of his fulness we all receive."

3. The Holy Spirit dwells within us.

4. The promises of God. So full, numerous, clear, strong.

5. The experience of God's people in all ages. Daily strength has been given for daily need. Therefore we may well believe the text.

III. AN INVALUABLE HELP TO OUR SPIRITUAL LIFE PROMISED.

1. It banishes fear.

(1) The fear of poverty. Israel, though they had only the day's supply of manna, did not fear for the morrow. Nor need we, for we know that, though the sun will set, there shall be light tomorrow.

(2) The fear of temptation. We pray, "Lead us not into temptation;" but in spite of that, we may be so led; but we need not fear - we shall be anointed with fresh oil.

(3) Of backsliding - that we shall fall away.

(4) Of great trials; if they come, it will be well with us.

(5) Of bereavements. We say, "What shall we do then?" But when one prop is taken, another is given.

2. It inspires glad hope. Of usefulness in Christ's service continued. Of full attainment in grace. Of strength sufficient for all need.

IV. A PAINFUL CONTRAST SUGGESTED. The godless have no such hope. All that sustains them is fast running out, and there is no further supply. What shall they do in the end thereof? They will have had their good things, and there are no more. - S.C.

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KJV: But my horn shalt thou exalt like the horn of an unicorn: I shall be anointed with fresh oil.

WEB: But you have exalted my horn like that of the wild ox. I am anointed with fresh oil.