Significance Of Anointing

In the Bible, anointing wasn’t just a ritual—it was a declaration of purpose. Whether it was kings, prophets, or priests, God’s anointing set them apart for His work. But here’s the beautiful truth: through Jesus Christ, we are all invited to walk in His anointing.

1 John 2:20 says, “But you are not like that, for the Holy One has given you his Spirit, and all of you know the truth.” This isn’t just for pastors or leaders; it’s for every believer who’s been called by God.

Today, we’re going to unpack the profound meaning of anointing in Scripture and its significance in our lives today. From being set apart for God’s purposes to walking in His power and authority, we’ll explore how the anointing equips and empowers believers to fulfill their divine calling.

Being anointed by God empowers us to live boldly for Him, and we’ll discuss how we can nurture this calling in our daily lives.

Understanding anointing and why it matters to believers today is what we are going to get into that.

Anointing in the Old Testament was a physical act of setting someone apart for God’s purposes.

Exodus 30:30 says, "Anoint Aaron and his sons, also consecrating them to serve me as priests."

In the Bible, anointing oil was primarily used as a symbolic act to set someone apart for a special purpose, like appointing a king or priest, signifying God's presence and blessing upon them. Today, many Christians still use anointing oil as a symbolic gesture during prayer for healing or blessing, but with a focus on the spiritual meaning rather than any literal healing power attributed to the oil itself. Its use varies widely across denominations and individual beliefs.

God desires each and every one of us to dedicate ourselves fully to Him, setting everything aside and fulfilling His plan and purpose for us—living a dedicated life of holiness and service to Him.

When you think about it, what does it mean to you to be set apart for God?

Luke 4:18 says, "The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, for He has anointed me to bring Good News to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim that captives will be released, that the blind will see, that the oppressed will be set free."

Jesus’ mission began with an anointing by the Holy Spirit, emphasizing the connection between anointing and purpose.

Just as those who were saved were given the Holy Spirit in the New Testament and then went out and preached about Jesus and the Holy Spirit, we are called to continue this mission today. That is our purpose.

Have you ever thought about how God has equipped you to share the Good News and bring freedom to others?

In Exodus 30:30, Aaron and his sons were set apart as priests for God’s Temple. In Luke, we then see that God continued to consecrate believers.

As a Christ follower, you are anointed for God’s work in your family’s life, workplace, and community. We are to share the Gospel with everyone.

Anointing isn’t just for the chosen few—it’s God’s gift to empower every believer for His mission.

Another question we ask is how the anointing empowers us to fulfill God’s purpose?

Acts 10:38 says, "And you know that God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power. Then Jesus went around doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with Him."

The anointing equips us with the power of the Holy Spirit to do good works and overcome the enemy.

2 Corinthians 1:21-22 says, "It is God who enables us, along with you, to stand firm for Christ. He has commissioned us, and He has identified us as His own by placing the Holy Spirit in our hearts as the first installment that guarantees everything He has promised us."

Anointing affirms our identity in Christ and enables us to stand firm in faith.

There are quite a few leaders in the Bible who were anointed by God. Just a few include Moses, Joshua, Saul, David, Elijah, and Elisha.

Their purpose was to serve the Lord and lead others to do the same—which is exactly what we are called to do today.

Here are some practical ways for us to remain connected to the Holy Spirit: prayer, worship, and Scripture meditation. By staying connected, we are better able to hear and do as the Lord directs us.

In what areas of your life do you need the Holy Spirit’s power to make an impact?

How can you nurture your relationship with the Holy Spirit this week?

When we talk about anointing, we see Jesus being anointed with the Holy Spirit and power, as mentioned in Acts 10:38. This was the beginning of the example of how we are to follow Jesus in life. Then, as we continue on in the New Testament, we see that Jesus commissioned us to do His will by placing the Holy Spirit within us, as stated in 2 Corinthians 1:21-22.

Embrace your anointing and step into God’s calling. Tell others about who He is and His great grace, mercy, and love.

The anointing of God empowers us to live boldly, love deeply, and fulfill His purposes with confidence.

Psalm 23:5 says, "You prepare a feast for me in the presence of my enemies. You honor me by anointing my head with oil. My cup overflows with blessings."

Anointing brings blessing and favor, even in challenging circumstances.

Here is a question to think about: what blessings has God poured into your life as a result of His anointing?

The Holy Spirit is our guide, teaching us truth and leading us in our walk with Christ.

1 John 2:27 says, "But you have received the Holy Spirit, and He lives within you, so you don’t need anyone to teach you what is true. For the Spirit teaches you everything you need to know, and what He teaches is true—it is not a lie. So just as He has taught you, remain in fellowship with Christ."

As we go day-to-day doing our normal routines, we can become easily distracted, and then we can find ourselves forgetting to take the time necessary to spend time with the Lord. To keep our connection strong, we need to spend time in prayer and Scripture to remain sensitive to the Spirit’s leading. When we keep ourselves on track, we will find it easier and easier to share what the Lord has done for us.

What works for you? How can you stay attuned to the Holy Spirit’s guidance in your life?

God provides abundant blessings and honor, even in the face of opposition, as described in Psalm 23:5. Through the Holy Spirit, who lives within us, we are guided into all truth and taught everything we need to know 1 John 2:27. Together, these scriptures remind us that God’s provision, anointing, and truth overflow in our lives as we remain in fellowship with Christ.

Living in God’s anointing means trusting His presence, power, and purpose every day.

Trust God’s anointing in every aspect of your life.

I hope today’s topic has inspired you to see yourself as set apart and equipped for God’s purpose.

As you go about your day, remember 1 John 2:20: "But you have an anointing from the Holy One." You are chosen, empowered, and called to live boldly for Him.

Be blessed, walk in His anointing, and let His Spirit guide you in all that you do.