Living in the oil of joy
This morning, I was up at 4.00 am and spent some quiet time with the Lord. As I opened the Scriptures, the same thought that had been on my heart yesterday surfaced again, but this time, I encountered it from another passage in the Book of Hebrews. It was as though the Lord was drawing my attention to the same truth from a different perspective, bringing a fresh understanding and deeper insight into His Word. As God's mercies are new every morning so is His Word. Hebrews 1:9 - You have loved righteousness and hated wickedness; therefore God, your God, has set you above your companions by anointing you with the oil of joy.” (NIV) Understanding the oil of joy In biblical times, oil was associated with joy, celebration, honour and blessing. It was used on festive occasions, as a sign of honour, and in religious ceremonies. For example, in Psalm 23:5 , David declares, “You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.” The anointing with oil here conveys a picture of God's generou...