Psalm 23:5b ”…you anoint my head with oil…”

Anointing with oil throughout the Bible has always been a symbol of blessing and favor. It is used to bring healing and was a sign of health. When David said that God anointed his head with oil he was doing more than just strolling down memory lane to when Samuel came and anointed him to be king over Israel. He was acknowledging God’s careful attention to caring for him. Just as shepherds use oil to keep insects and other things from becoming a health issue or an annoyance to the sheep, God cares for our physical well-being as well. It shows his concern not just for our spiritual lives but also for the care of the bodies that he has given us. Isaiah also spoke of this oil of anointing from the Lord, referring to it as the “oil of gladness”, something that brings joy (Isa 61:3). In all of its many meanings, David intended to show God that he recognized the ‘personal attention’ God was giving to him. After all, anointing was done individually. Has God paid personal attention to your life? Has he anointed you with the oil of gladness? Have you acknowledged him with thankfulness?

Pray: “Lord God, even when life’s annoyances come, I know you have anointed me with your blessings. Your individual attention to my life is both personal and loving. Help me to remember that my loving shepherd takes the time to care for not only my needs of the moment, but my needs for tomorrow as well. Thank you, Father - in Jesus holy name I pray - Amen”