Fresh Anointing

I don’t know much about car engines, but I do know I need to get my oil changed regularly. Oil reduces friction thus keeping all the moving parts from overheating. A well lubricated engine uses less fuel, because it takes less effort for it to operate. After several thousand miles of use, motor oil gets dirty—which causes it to become thicker and more abrasive. This is why it is recommended that cars have their oil changed every few months. Cars that that go through severe use might need more frequent oil changes. Experts recommend replacing the oil once a year even in cars that are rarely used. If we are going on a long driving trip, we usually schedule an oil change before we start, just to be on the safe side.

“(God’s) love oils the wheels of his affections, and sets him on that which is helpful to his brethren. A man that goes about a business with ill will, always does it badly.” (Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary of 1 John 4:7-13)

I’ve been a bit cranky lately. The anointing oil of the Holy Spirit—which usually keeps me chugging along—has gotten a bit cruddy over time. It clogs up my motives and makes me have a bad attitude. Despite this, I try to willpower my way through severe conditions. This causes friction and unnecessary wear and tear. I need some fresh anointing.

When I know ahead that I’m about to face a challenging situation, I try to schedule some time for a personal retreat. I make myself available to the Holy Spirit so that He can drain out the contaminated oil and fill me anew. Unfortunately, crises often come unannounced. I might be overdue for some spiritual maintenance, but when others are depending on me, I feel guilty about taking time out for myself. The murky lubricant coursing through my soul causes me to burn out quicker—and it affects everybody that comes in contact with me.