Provision, Protection, and Peace part 6

Thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. - Psalm 23:5b

As we continue in the fifth verse, the imagery of the given phrases can be used (and have been used) to say many things but keeping the context of the sheep and their confidence in their shepherd is vital to the faith aspect. 

While it is true that throughout the scriptures “anointing” and “oil” can signify the various workings of the Holy Spirit, this working is specific. Shepherds often poured oil on the heads of their sheep to heal wounds and comfort them from serious irritations that can come through certain flies and insects.  In the spirit, this “head anointing” deals with easing and alleviating a troubled or worried mind. So the good news is that we don’t have to stay burdened down in fear or frustration. The anointing of comfort and strength is available. Also, as a note, the ancient manuscripts translate the last phrase as “your cup” instead of “my cup”, which does seem to keep the context of declaring God’s un-ending, overflowing supply.

Father, I am thankful for Your anointing. I recognize and acknowledge that the anointing is not about a gift, a talent, or a set of skills. It is a burden-removing, yoke-obliterating power that causes suffering to be alleviated, misfortune to be avoided, strongholds to come down and all of mankind to be drawn to You. By faith in Christ, I receive this anointing upon my head that my thinking would be clear, my decisions would be certain, my actions would be godly, and my steps would be ordered. Perfect peace is my heritage, love is my culture, forgiveness is my lifestyle, and I refuse to EVER hold a grudge. I am truly free and fulfilled in You.

Isa 10:27;  Isa 26:3; Phil 4:7