If you read my column, you know I’m not talking politics. I like God’s unchanging truth, not the fickle fortunes of men. Petroleum isn’t the only kind of oil in the world, after all.

A thousand years before Christ, David penned the following: “Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity! It is like the precious oil upon the head, running down on the beard, the beard of Aaron, running down on the edge of his garments…for there the Lord commanded the blessing – life forevermore.” (Psalm 133:1-3)

The oil was intended to symbolize the Holy Spirit. We see that in the words Jesus quoted from Isaiah, “The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He has anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor; He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted….” (Luke 4:18)

In Bible times, Israel ran on oil – olive oil. It was used to prepare food, as medicinal ointment, to light their lamps, to provide warmth, and to anoint dignitaries, like prophets, priests, and kings.

This isn’t surprising when we consider five ministries of the Spirit in a believer’s life.

Food preparation? “When He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth.” (John 16:13) Soul food – the best kind!
Medicine for healing? When leaving for heaven, Jesus said, “I will pray the Father, and He shall give you another Comforter, that He may abide with you forever.” (John 14:16)

Light to direct our journey? “For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God.” (Romans 8:14)

The warmth of fellowship? “If you have … any fellowship with the Spirit, if any affection and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being united in spirit and purpose.” (Philippians 2:1-2)

Then we come to anointing. John tells all believers, “You have an anointing from the Holy One.” (1 John 2:20) Paul explains, “Now He who…has anointed us is God, who also has sealed us and given us the Spirit in our hearts as a guarantee.” (2 Corinthians 1:21-22)

This links us with David’s illustration at the beginning. He was describing the anointing of Israel’s High Priest. The olive oil, mixed with various spices to produce a precious perfume, ran down from head to feet.

The title “Christ” means Anointed One. Jesus is the ultimate Prophet, Priest, and King. The Church (composed of all true believers) is called His body. So the Spirit, symbolized by the oil, encompasses all God’s people, producing this unity that is good and pleasant.

We’re now instructed to be “eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.” (Ephesians 4:3)

What are some ways to do this? Treat all believers, whatever name they claim, as your brothers and sisters in Christ. Pray for all of God’s people in your town, not just those in your local church. And look for ways to encourage every Christian you meet, because “how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!” (Psalm 133:1)

There’s no oil shortage when it comes to the Spirit. But how can you be filled with the Spirit while singing to the Lord Sunday morning and not show love for His people the rest of the week?

Jabe Nicholson of Starkville, an author and publisher, loves to engage with people on life’s key issues. Reach him at [email protected] or visit www.uplook.tv