|
We are individually and collectively
desperate for the anointing of the Holy Spirit when we assemble
ourselves together for worship service. I thank God for the presence
of the Holy Spirit and for how He is still descending to meet with
His children. Without the anointing of the Holy Spirit, we waste our
time and are unedified. While the saints have taken the proper stand
against entertainment and musical instruments in public worship, it
is then glaring when a service isn't anointed. We don't want to use
programs, entertainment, humor, etc. to fill in the gap. What we
need is to seek God for more of His anointing.
Some measure anointing by emotion, charisma, or intellectual
thought. While nothing is wrong with those things in and of
themselves, anointing is simply the presence and approval of the
Lord. We need to be careful that we don't put God in a box as He
operates and blesses uniquely in different services. Sometimes the
service may be quiet and other times full of praise. Sometimes the
preaching may be gentle and other times loud and bold. These are not
indications of anointing or a lack thereof.
Anointing is the presence of God that ministers and touches the
souls present in the service. True anointing cannot be manipulated
or manufactured. Anointing comes when God's approval is on what is
being said and done in the order of the Spirit.
When the preacher or the singer is on display rather than God, the
Spirit isn't given full unction to anoint. When God stops getting
the glory, the glory stops. Some might leave a service having
'enjoyed' it, but if it wasn't anointed, there isn't much lasting
good accomplished.
When a man or woman steps outside of the order of the Lord in
worship service, the anointing will be diminished or non-existent.
This is why it is imperative that each one be careful to follow the
leadings of the Lord.
There is a measure of anointing that comes when the truth is
preached as opposed to error. But there is a greater anointing when
the truth is preached as the Spirit dictates the time and place.
If we desire to see greater anointing and conviction in worship
services and camp meetings, then there is a price that must be paid.
People that live spiritually lax through the week should not expect
to have the anointing of God when it is time to worship. Ministers
and singers should not expect for God's rich anointing to be on
their ministry when they have been conducting themselves with pride
and carnality.
While some may say they have never been in an unanointed service, I
will freely acknowledge that I have. I exhort us in the fear of God
to die out to self and allow the Spirit to have His way. When we do
that, we will find that the presence of God - His anointing - is
richer and more precious than ever before. |
