The anointing—the presence and power of the Holy Spirit working through a believer—is a priceless gift. However, receiving and walking in the anointing requires a life of complete surrender. It will cost you everything, as it demands obedience, sacrifice, and a willingness to lay down your own desires for God’s purposes. Let’s explore the cost of the anointing and how it transforms your life.
1. The Anointing Requires Full Surrender
Walking in the anointing means giving up control over your life. Jesus calls His followers to a life of self-denial in Matthew 16:24-25:
"Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it."
- You surrender your plans and ambitions to align with God’s will.
- You trust God with every aspect of your life, knowing His ways are higher (Isaiah 55:8-9).
2. The Anointing Comes with Testing
The cost of the anointing often includes enduring trials and challenges that refine your character. James 1:2-4 reminds us,
"Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance."
- Joseph was tested through betrayal and imprisonment before stepping into his anointed role as Egypt’s leader (Genesis 37-41).
- David was anointed as king but spent years fleeing from Saul, learning to trust God in the wilderness (1 Samuel 16-31).
These tests prepare you for greater levels of responsibility and spiritual authority.
3. The Anointing Requires Obedience
The anointing is sustained by a life of obedience to God’s Word and Spirit. 1 Samuel 15:22 emphasizes,
"To obey is better than sacrifice."
- Saul lost his anointing as king because of disobedience, while David, though imperfect, maintained his anointing through repentance and a heart after God (Acts 13:22).
- Obedience often requires saying "yes" to God even when it’s difficult or uncomfortable.
4. The Anointing Demands Holiness
The anointing requires a lifestyle set apart for God. 2 Timothy 2:21 says,
"Those who cleanse themselves from the latter will be instruments for special purposes, made holy, useful to the Master and prepared to do any good work."
- Avoid compromises that grieve the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 4:30).
- Pursue purity in thought, speech, and action, knowing the anointing thrives in a clean vessel.
5. The Anointing Requires Sacrifice
Walking in the anointing often means letting go of personal comforts, relationships, or ambitions that conflict with God’s call. Luke 14:33 says,
"In the same way, those of you who do not give up everything you have cannot be my disciples."
- The disciples left their livelihoods to follow Jesus, demonstrating the ultimate sacrifice for the sake of the Gospel (Matthew 4:18-22).
- Modern-day sacrifices might include time, resources, or status as you prioritize God’s kingdom over worldly gain.
6. The Cost is High, but the Reward is Greater
The anointing may cost you everything, but the rewards far outweigh the sacrifices. Romans 8:18 encourages us,
"I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us."
- Walking in the anointing allows you to impact lives for eternity.
- The presence of the Holy Spirit brings peace, joy, and fulfillment that nothing in this world can provide.
Biblical Examples of the Cost of the Anointing
- Jesus: Jesus paid the ultimate cost, laying down His life to fulfill His anointed mission as the Savior (Luke 4:18-19). He calls us to follow His example of selfless obedience.
- Paul: Paul endured persecution, imprisonment, and hardship to fulfill his anointing as an apostle to the Gentiles (2 Corinthians 11:23-28).
- Mary of Bethany: She anointed Jesus with expensive perfume, symbolizing a costly act of worship that demonstrated her devotion (John 12:3).
How to Embrace the Cost of the Anointing
- Daily Surrender: Pray for the Holy Spirit to guide your decisions and lead you into deeper submission.
- Endure Trials with Faith: Trust that God uses trials to refine and prepare you for greater anointing.
- Stay Close to God: Spend time in His Word, prayer, and worship to cultivate intimacy with Him.
- Walk in Obedience: Follow God’s instructions, even when it’s hard, trusting that His plans are perfect.
- Pursue Holiness: Remove anything from your life that hinders your walk with God.
Closing Prayer
Abba Father, in the name of Jesus, we thank You for the gift of Your anointing. Your Word reminds us in Psalm 92:10, "You have exalted my horn like that of a wild ox; fine oils have been poured on me." Teach us to embrace the cost of following You wholeheartedly. Strengthen us to surrender everything for the sake of Your kingdom. Refine us through trials and empower us by Your Spirit to walk in holiness and obedience. May we glorify You with our lives. In the almighty name of Jesus, Amen.
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