Fresh Oil

 

Psalm 23


In reading Psalm 23, have you ever considered the meaning of the words, “Thou anointest my head with oil”, found in verse 5?  Remember;  David was a shepherd.  He knew well how to care for sheep. So as he writes these words, he draws upon his own experiences to relate the good care of the Lord (our Shepherd) for His people.


A shepherd would anoint, or rub oil on the sheep for two primary reasons:

 

1. To repel annoying insects.  If certain insects were allowed to deposit their eggs into the soft membrane of a sheep’s nose, they would drive the animal crazy.  The ewes would stop producing milk and the lambs would be hindered in their growth. So, the shepherd applied oil like repellent that kept the insects off of the sheep and kept the flock happy and at peace.

2. To heal wounds. A wound today could become tomorrow’s infection.  So oil would be applied to scratches and cuts to fight disease and infection from spreading to other members of the flock.


Interestingly enough, Psalm 147:3 says, “He healeth the broken in heart and bindeth up their wounds.” That’s what God does for us! We need the “fresh oil” of the Holy Spirit’s power to keep us healthy and happy. Go to the Good Shepherd my friend.  He has just the right medicine for your problems today.



The Pastor’s Pocket

Pastor Bruce Freeman


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