Divine Appointment

In the biblical context, a divine appointment refers to a specific event or encounter orchestrated by God for a particular purpose. These appointments are often pivotal moments in the lives of individuals, serving as turning points that align with God's sovereign plan. The concept of divine appointment underscores the belief in God's active involvement in the world and His ability to guide human affairs according to His will.

One of the most notable examples of divine appointment is found in the account of Esther. Esther, a Jewish woman who became queen of Persia, was placed in her position "for such a time as this" (Esther 4:14). Her appointment as queen was not merely a result of chance but was divinely orchestrated to save the Jewish people from annihilation.

Another example is the encounter between Philip and the Ethiopian eunuch in Acts 8:26-40. Philip was directed by an angel of the Lord to go to a specific road where he met the eunuch, who was reading the book of Isaiah. This meeting was a divine appointment that led to the eunuch's conversion and baptism.

Divine appointments often involve guidance from the Holy Spirit, as seen in the life of the Apostle Paul. In Acts 16:6-10, Paul and his companions were prevented by the Holy Spirit from preaching in certain regions, only to receive a vision calling them to Macedonia. This redirection was a divine appointment that led to the spread of the Gospel in Europe.

Anointing

Anointing in the Bible refers to the act of pouring or smearing oil on a person or object as a symbol of consecration, blessing, or empowerment by God. The practice of anointing is deeply rooted in the Old Testament and carries significant spiritual meaning.

In the Old Testament, anointing was primarily associated with the consecration of priests, kings, and prophets. For instance, Aaron and his sons were anointed as priests to serve in the tabernacle (Exodus 28:41). Similarly, Samuel anointed Saul and later David as kings over Israel (1 Samuel 10:1; 16:13). The anointing of these individuals signified their divine appointment and empowerment for their respective roles.

The anointing oil itself was considered holy and was made according to a specific formula given by God (Exodus 30:22-25). It symbolized the presence and power of the Holy Spirit, setting apart the anointed for God's service.

In the New Testament, the concept of anointing takes on a broader spiritual significance. Jesus Christ is referred to as the "Anointed One," or the Messiah, fulfilling the Old Testament prophecies of a Savior who would be empowered by the Spirit of God (Luke 4:18). Believers in Christ are also said to receive an anointing from the Holy One, which teaches them and abides in them (1 John 2:20, 27).

The anointing of the Holy Spirit is seen as essential for the life and ministry of believers, empowering them to fulfill God's purposes. This spiritual anointing is not limited to specific individuals but is available to all who are in Christ, enabling them to live out their faith with boldness and authority.

In summary, divine appointment and anointing are intertwined concepts that highlight God's sovereign choice and empowerment of individuals for His purposes. Through divine appointments, God orchestrates events and encounters that align with His will, while anointing signifies the consecration and empowerment of individuals by the Holy Spirit for service in His kingdom.