He Anoints my Head with Oil

 

Have you ever wondered what the portion of the 23rd Psalm meant when it reads, “He anoints my head with oil”? Was it figurative artful language? Or did those beautiful words have a parallel meaning that made real life sense in the era of the Psalmist. 

First, a little background: Sheep often got their head caught in briers and became dangerously injured, even died, in a desperate attempt to free themselves. There were horrid little flies that liked to torment sheep by laying eggs in their nostrils, which turned into worms, only to drive the sheep to beat their head against a rock—sometimes to death. Their ears and eyes were also susceptible to tormenting insects. So, the shepherd anointed their entire head with oil. Then there was peace. That oil formed a barrier of protection against the evil of the various attacks that tried to destroy the sheep.

Do you have times when you are dealing with an onslaught of sheer mental torment? Do troublesome thoughts continuously invade your mind? Do you beat your head against a proverbial wall trying to figure out answers to life’s seemingly endless list of debatable questions? Then ask God to anoint your head with oil. He has an unlimited supply! His oil protects your heart and mind, and allows you to keep your eyes fixed on Him! There is peace as you focus on the Lord and not the problems and challenges of your life! May the Father anoint your head with His oil of healing so your cup overflows with boundless blessings! God is good! And He is faithful to protect and meet your needs! - (Adapted by J Drummonds from the writing of an unknown author.)