Grow in God's Love Each Morning!

Word Of God:

“The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.”- 2 Peter 3:9

Daily Devotion:

Why Oil?

"The prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well;the Lord will raise him up. If he has sinned, he will be forgiven" (Js 5:15)

In James 5: 14 we read about anointing the sick with oil and praying for them. Many quote this verse and sell "anointed oil" in bottles. Sincere Christians want to know what the Bible has to say about this.

Scented oils were used in the Old Testament times to symbolize gladness (Psa 45:7; 104:15), and were avoided in times of mourning (2 Sam 12:20; Isa 61:3). Guests were anointed with perfumed oils as a mark of special hounour (Lk 7:36-38,46). Anointing with soothing oils was also part of medical treatment in Biblical times (Isa 1:6; Jer 8:22). The disciples of Christ continued this Jewish practice when they went on their healing mission (Mk 6:13). The Epistle of James, which was primarily addressed "to the twelve tribes" of Israel (Js 1:1), recommends the use of oil for the sick (Js 5:14). The Greek word "aleipho" used in such instances always indicated a literal rubbing. Also the Greek word for "oil" here is "elaion" which means olive oil. Therefore we are to understand that James was prescribing both prayer and medical treatment for the sick believers.

However, oil in the Bible is also a symbol of the presence and power of the Holy Spirit (Zech 4:2-6). Prophets, priests and kings were anointed with oil when they were consecrated. Therefore the use of oil, while ministering to the sick, as a point of contact to encourage faith is not objectionable. It may symbolize the healing virtue to flow from Christ the Head to the sick organs of His Body (Psa 133:2). But it is not the oil that is to be anointed, blessed or prayed for. That is close to idolatry. Under the New Covenant God does not anoint or sanctify objects. The anointing will descend only on people (Acts 2:17).

The primary responsibility of ministering healing to believers lies with the local "elders of the Church" (Js 5:14). It must be further followed up by believers praying for "one another" (v16). Healing evangelists should not urge Christians to immediately write to them or phone-call them for prayer, but encourage the Christians and the pastors to develop the healing ministry in the local context. Returning to this Biblical procedure will put an end to malpractices and exploitations in the use of the "gifts of healings" God has graciously placed in the Church.

"The Sun of Righteousness shall arise with healing in His wings!" (Mal 4:2)

Prayer:

Put Courage Into My Heart

Lord, put courage into my heart, and take away all that may hinder me serving you. Free my tongue to proclaim your goodness, that all may understand me. Give me friends to advise and help me, that by working together our efforts may bear abundant fruit. And, above all, let me constantly remember that all my actions are in vain unless they are guided by your hand.