Go For The Anointing

The Need for the Anointing

Christianity devoid of the Holy Spirit is merely human effort in pursuit of God. The Holy Spirit, symbolized by the anointing, is the essence that transforms ordinary believers into vessels of divine power. 1 John 2:27 underscores this truth: “But the anointing which you have received from Him abides in you, and you do not need that anyone teach you; but as the same anointing teaches you concerning all things, and is true, and is not a lie, and just as it has taught you, you will abide in Him.” The anointing instructs, empowers, and sustains believers in their spiritual journey.

The Role of the Anointing in Ministry

For a vibrant, growing church, two key responsibilities are highlighted in Acts 6:4: dedication to the Word and prayer. However, these efforts are futile without the anointing of the Holy Spirit. Jesus’ disciples, Peter and John, experienced extensive teaching from Christ, yet when it was time to act, they faltered due to a lack of spiritual empowerment. The anointing is likened to oil in a car; without it, the ministry cannot move effectively. Romans 8:26 further emphasizes, “Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.” The Holy Spirit enhances our prayers, making them powerful and effective, especially in the face of spiritual challenges.

Degrees of Anointing

The anointing comes in varying degrees, as illustrated in Ezekiel 47:1-5. The prophet Ezekiel describes a vision of water flowing from the temple, representing the different levels of anointing available to believers:

1. Ankle-Level Anointing (v3): This initial level signifies the beginning of the believer’s journey in the anointing. It is a foundational experience, introducing the believer to the presence and power of the Holy Spirit.
2. Knee-Level Anointing (v4): At this stage, the believer experiences a deeper engagement with the Holy Spirit, characterized by increased sensitivity to spiritual matters and a stronger prayer life.
3. Loins-Level Anointing (v4): This level signifies further immersion, where the believer’s spiritual strength and authority are markedly enhanced. It involves greater responsibilities and manifestations of spiritual gifts.
4. Overflow Dimension Anointing (v5): This highest level, described as “waters to swim in,” represents an overwhelming, limitless experience of the Holy Spirit. Jesus epitomized this level, having the anointing without measure (John 3:34).

The Pursuit of Greater Anointing

Believers are encouraged to continually thirst and crave for higher levels of anointing. As John 3:34 indicates, Jesus received the Spirit without measure, demonstrating that there are no limits to the anointing a believer can receive. Ephesians 4:7 affirms that each believer receives grace according to the measure of Christ’s gift, encouraging an ever-increasing experience of the Holy Spirit. The well of living water, described in John 4:14, symbolizes the inexhaustible supply of the Holy Spirit available to those who seek it earnestly.

Practical Steps and Prayers for Increased Anointing

1. Desire and Thirst for the Anointing: A genuine longing for the Holy Spirit is essential. Jesus promised in John 14:12 that believers would do greater works than He did, emphasizing the necessity of the anointing to fulfill this promise.
2. Persistent Prayer: Regular, fervent prayer invites the Holy Spirit’s presence. Prayer points to consider include:

1. • “Lord, I need this anointing more than ever before.”
   • “Baptize me in the unending flow of the river of life.”
   • “Increase my unction to elevate my life and ministry to the place of effect and proofs.”

3. Engagement with the Word: The anointing thrives on a strong foundation of the Word of God. As 1 John 1:1 indicates, the anointing transforms believers into practitioners of the Word, enabling them to experience the powers of the world to come (Hebrews 6:4-5).

Conclusion

The anointing of the Holy Spirit is indispensable for effective Christian living and ministry. It transforms ordinary believers into extraordinary vessels of God’s power, enabling them to fulfill their divine calling with excellence. By earnestly seeking and nurturing the anointing, believers can experience the fullness of the Holy Spirit, walking in greater levels of revelation, power, and effectiveness in their spiritual journey. Thus, the call is clear: Go for the anointing, and let it transform your life and ministry.