Thank you for listening to Servants for Christ. In all that we do, in all that we say, we want to give glory and honor to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Thank you for tuning us in as we get into the wonderful Word of God. For the next few minutes, let's take the beautiful Word of God and share it with each and every one of you as we have a sense of anticipation to take the Word of God and to listen to its truth for each and every one. What an honor it is to be able to speak on the word of God. We can always preach a better sermon with our life, than with our lips. And I'm glad, I wanna ask you if you would please, would you turn with us in your Bibles to 1 Samuel 16, verse 13. 1 Samuel 16, verse 13. The Word of God says, then Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him in the midst of his brethren. And the Spirit of the Lord came upon David from that day forward. So Samuel rose up and went to Ramah. Let's pray. Father, in your presence, we seek to understand the significance of the anointing oil as seen in 1 Samuel 16, verse 13. And as we open our hearts to your word, may your spirit fill us, prepare us for what's ahead. to put on the whole armor of God daily, that we may stand firm in our faith, prepared for the challenges that we face, and may we recognize the power of your anointing in our lives. As we get into the word, I pray God that many people that are lacking that anointing in their life is because of their fellowship. and their waywardness, and I pray God that you would help us to be able to bring that out in this scripture and message and apply it to our lives. May we look and seek those that are lost to be brought in to the family of God. In Jesus' marvelous mighty name, amen. You know, when we look, At 1 Samuel chapter 16, we see a very important message because, you know, I was reading about someone who overcame some great challenges in their life. And you know, just as David was anointed with oil and empowered by the Spirit, we too are called to embrace God's anointing in our lives to fulfill His purpose. Hear the story of David's secret anointing as king and his service in Saul's court. You know, God judges the heart, not the appearance of a person. And so we see the picture of a king sitting upon his throne ruling over a nation and people that he had governed for years. But you know what? Unknown to that king some distance away, a young boy is about to be secretly anointed to replace him. a young boy who was to become the future king of the nation of Israel. And not only is a secret anointing taking place, but this young man, this young boy would soon be serving in the royal court at the very feet of the king that he would someday replace. The king would be totally unaware that this young boy was the future anointed king. What a picture of a high drama, a suspenseful picture of the shift of power and the highest power of a nation being secretly transferred from a ruling king over to a young boy who was destined to become king. And so, as this story unfolds, of God's holy word because of disobedience King Saul was destined to be removed as king of Israel and by the hand of God's judgment by the work of God among the Israelites and upon this earth was to go on because to carry on the work of God God had chosen a young boy who had a heart after God's own heart. This young boy was to become the future king of God's people. And from the day of David's secret anointing to the end of Saul's life, David would be a threat to Saul's claim to the throne. And Saul would seek to kill David time and again. You know what I want to talk to you about? You need some anointing in your life. Because all of us, when we look and we realize the reasons why we may need some anointing in our life. There's times of uncertainty and difficult decision-making that we may feel we need some divine guidance. And just like someone might consult someone that has direction or has advice, anointing can be seen as seeking that divine insight for life's choices. And though similar to receiving some type of counseling or therapy, Anointing symbolizes a desire for an inner peace and a healing from past wounds. Maybe it could be likened to needing a motivational boost or an encouragement for some kind of challenge that's coming up. Or much like a safety net of taking precautions in life, anointing that represents a desire for divine safety and covering. Maybe it's like starting a new job with a celebration, anointing that symbolizes committed to the task ahead. Or think of it as needing some extra support to tackle a difficult situation, like a coach preparing for a play in a tough game. Maybe it's about rallying friends and family for help during challenging times, anointing represents a communal support and encouragement. Just as one might on improving communication or understanding in relationships, anointing can signify a desire for deeper connections. And it's like enrolling in a class or a shop that develops skills, that it represents the pursuit of a spiritual enhancement. similar to taking a break or a sabbatical recharge, anointing symbolizes a fresh start or a restoration in one's journey. And so when we look and we see that every one of us, that there can be a need for some anointing in our life, And so, when we look at this entire chapter, we see the mission of Samuel to arise and anoint a new king, conquering grief and sorrow, and for Samuel, verses one through five of 1 Samuel chapter 16. We see the secret of anointing David being empowered by God's spirit in verses six through 13. And then we see in verses 14 through 23, the beginning of David's preparation to be king, a picture of God's sovereignty. But out of all of this, we're gonna be focusing on verse 13. the scripture that told us that Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him in the midst of his brothers and the Spirit of the Lord rushed upon David from that day forward and Samuel rose up and went to Ramah. Excuse me. You know, the greatest gift in all the world is the gift of God's Spirit. And when we approach God through Christ, God places His own Spirit in us, in the very core of our being, because we become indwelt by God's Spirit. It's God's Spirit who convicts and saves and gives us assurance of salvation. He guides teaches, protects, and provides the necessities of life for each and every one of us in meeting all of our needs. What more could a person ask? It's the Spirit of God who empowers us to conquer all of the trials and the temptations of life, who enables us to live a victorious and a triumphant life day by day. And so one of the first things that I see when I talk about you need some anointing in your life is number one, understanding the purpose of anointing, because there's a designation of authority. And then Samuel went and did that same thing in the midst of his brethren. He called them one by one, but not a one of them was the one that God had given Samuel that authority to anoint. Only the youngest one that was out in the fields as a shepherd, And so, you know what? Simon Sinek said that leadership is not about being in charge, it's about taking care of those in your charge. And so, David's anointing emphasizes the heart of a true leader. David was chosen because of his heart for God and his ability to shepherd his people. And in our leadership roles, be it at work, In the church or within our families, we're called to serve others rather than to seek power or recognition. And it encourages a culture of service over authority, fostering healthy relationship and community growth. And so the act of anointing signifies God's choice and empowerment for service. Are we recognizing and embracing the authority God has given us in Christ? And so what? When we understand the purpose of anointing, we see a designation of authority. Amen. And so, you know what? The prophet Samuel, he's sent to anoint a new king and he finds himself in Jesse's house, surveying David's brothers. And when Samuel sees Elahab, He thinks he's found the one, but God tells him not to look at outward appearances. Instead, God says, for the Lord seeth not as man seeth. For man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart. Unfortunately, David, the youngest and seemingly least qualified, is chosen and anointed. In today's society, we often judge people based on their appearances or achievements. And this story reminds us to look beyond the surface. When we evaluate others, we should consider their character and potential rather than their superficial qualities. And it can be applied in our workplaces, in schools, in our churches. where we're called to nurture and encourage those who may not fit into our modes. And so there's a designation of authority, but also there's an empowerment for service. Because in Acts 10, verse 38, the Bible says, how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power, who went about doing good and healing all that was oppressed of the devil, for God was with him. Just as Jesus was empowered by the Holy Spirit, we're called to live empowered lives. How can we tap into this divine strength to serve others and to glorify God? Well, we see that when we understand the purpose of anointing, the designation of authority, an empowerment for service, we see a call to holiness. In 1 Peter 2, 9, the Bible says, but you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a peculiar people that ye should shew forth the praises of him who has called you out of darkness into his marvelous light. Anointing sets us apart for God's purposes. Are we living lives that reflect his holiness and his calling? And so, When we see that we need some anointing in our life, we see not only understanding the purpose of anointing, but secondly, the power of anointing in our lives. We see, first of all, healing and restoration. In James 5, 14, the Bible says, is any sick among you? Let him call for the elders of the church and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. You know anointing with oil is a means of healing and restoration. Do we seek God's healing through prayer and the anointing of the Holy Spirit in our lives? And so each and every one of us, we look at the story of a young man by the name of Tony who came from a troubled background. Many people Many believed that he wouldn't amount to much due to his upbringing, but through hard work and genuine desire to improve his community, he started a youth mentorship program in his neighborhood. His life transformed others, proving that greatness can emerge from the most unlikely places, just like a little David of the Shepherd Boy. Just as God chose David from among his brethrens, we should not overlook individuals who might seem unqualified or inexperienced. God can use anyone to fulfill his purposes. Encouraging and empowering those who are overlooked can lead to unexpected and powerful outcomes in our communities. Be open to mentoring someone or being mentored regardless of their past. I thank God that that is one of the great qualities of being able to mentor someone. Amen. As Brother Tommy Harris has always been a great mentor, all of the men of God in my life have been great mentors. Matter of fact, they have been the greater teachers than I could ever learn in seminary, that I could ever learn in a school setting or anything else. And so we see the power of anointing in our lives, healing and restoration. And we also see strength in trials. The psalmist, Psalms 23, 5 says, Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of my enemies. Thou anointest my head with oil. My cup runneth over. You see, God's anointing provides strength. and comfort even in the face of adversity. How can we learn? How can we lean on God during our trials, trusting in his anointing to see us through? Well, I'm glad there was a man named John who was known for his rough exterior and poor choices in life. However, after an encounter with faith, he decided to change his ways. With time, and support. He not only transformed his life, but also became a mentor to young men in his community. He shares his story of redemption and transformation, illustrating that God can choose anyone regardless of their past. This aligns with a message because it reminds us that God sees our potential for greatness beyond our failures. In our lives, we can encourage those around us who are struggling, letting them know that their past does not define their future. It reinforces the idea that everyone can experience renewal and anointing in Christ. And so not only do we see the power of anointing in our lives, healing and restoration, strength in trials, but we see the joy and abundance. Because Isaiah 61.3 says, to appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beautiful ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, and the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness, that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that he might be glorified. You see, God's anointing brings joy and it brings abundance. Are we allowing his joy to overflow in our lives, transforming our sorrows into praise? And so, You need some anointing in your life. And when we think on that, we've talked about understanding the purpose of anointing. We've talked about the power of anointing in our lives. But lastly, in closing, we want to talk about responding to the anointing. because we see a life of service. In Paul's writing in the book of Galatians, chapter 5, verse 13, the word of God says, for brethren, ye have been called unto liberty, only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another. You know we're all called to serve others out of love that we've received. How can we actively serve in our communities and reflect the love of Christ? Well, responding to the anointing, Not only is there a life of service, but there's also walking in the Spirit. And in Galatians chapter five, verse 16, the Bible says, this I say then, walk in the Spirit and ye shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh. Because you know what? When we live in the anointing, it means walking in the Spirit daily. How can we cultivate a deeper relationship with the Holy Spirit to guide our actions? Hmm, I'm glad that from an unknown that said this, worship is not about what we get, it's about what we give, unquote. And so David was known as a man after God's own heart. His anointing was not just for kinship, but also for a life devoted to worship and service. And in today's society, We can reflect on our intentions in worship. Are we coming to God seeking what we can get? Or are we coming to offer our lives in service every Sunday? True worship leads us to serve others and honor God in our actions just as David did. And so, you need some anointing in your life. I want you to, as I close out with a story of Mahala Youssef, Yusei, Mahala Yusei, a young girl who stood up for her right to educate in the face of life-threatening opposition. She wasn't an expected leader in her society, and yet her courage and passion for education inspired a global movement. And so, Malala's story reminds us that true leadership is often born out of passion and integrity, not position or status. Like David, who led with a heart focused on God, we're called to lead by example and advocate for what is right, even when it's challenging. And so we see that we respond to the anointing, not only a life of service, not only walking in the Spirit, but sharing the blessings. Ain't you so glad? Paul said in 2 Corinthians 1, verses 21 and 22, now he which established us with you in Christ and hath anointed us is God, who hath also sealed us and give us the earnest of the Spirit in our hearts. You know what? We're called to share the blessings of God's anointing with others. How could we be ambassadors of Christ in our world, sharing his grace and his love? You see, the anointing oil in the Bible symbolizes God's empowerment, his healing, and his joy. And as born-again believers, we're called to embrace the anointing in our lives, serving others and reflecting his grace in our actions. I hope and pray that we can continue to seek His anointing as we live out our faith by looking at the Word of God, prayerfully seeking guidance in our decisions, amen, and open prayer, trusting friends, church leaders, asking God for healings in our areas, amen, and by looking for the opportunities to volunteer, to support those in need, and to share the gospel with those around us. you may need some anointing that's in your life. Father, we thank you for the powerful message of anointing that's significant because we recognize your anointing and empowerment as we serve you and those that are around us. Help us to be the vessels of your grace, sharing the love and healing that we have received, and we pray for those who are lost, that they may come to know the saving grace of Jesus Christ. Remember our church family, Bethel Cross Rhodes Baptist, our pastor and his family, and our deacons, our children's ministry. Lord, all that is taking place We pray, and Lord, we ask that Lord, each and every one of us, as you watch over our children, we repent of our shortcomings, and we grow in our relationship with you. In the mighty name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen. you