Topical Encyclopedia
God's TimingThe concept of God's timing is a recurring theme throughout the Bible, emphasizing the belief that God orchestrates events according to His divine schedule. This principle is rooted in the understanding that God's perspective on time is vastly different from human perception.
Ecclesiastes 3:1 states, "To everything there is a season, and a time for every purpose under heaven." This verse underscores the belief that God has a specific time for every event and purpose in life.
The account of Abraham and Sarah illustrates God's timing. Despite their advanced age, God promised them a son, Isaac, at the appointed time (
Genesis 21:2: "So Sarah conceived and bore a son to Abraham in his old age, at the very time God had promised him"). This narrative highlights the importance of patience and faith in God's promises, even when circumstances seem impossible.
In the New Testament, the timing of Jesus Christ's birth is another example of divine timing.
Galatians 4:4 states, "But when the time had fully come, God sent His Son, born of a woman, born under the law." This verse indicates that Jesus' arrival was perfectly timed according to God's plan for salvation.
AnointingAnointing in the Bible signifies being chosen and empowered by God for a specific purpose or task. It often involves the physical act of pouring oil on an individual, symbolizing the Holy Spirit's presence and empowerment. The anointing of kings, prophets, and priests in the Old Testament serves as a testament to God's selection and equipping of individuals for His work.
One of the most notable examples of anointing is the anointing of David as king. In
1 Samuel 16:13 , it is recorded, "So Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him in the presence of his brothers, and the Spirit of the LORD rushed upon David from that day forward." This anointing marked David as God's chosen king and empowered him for leadership.
In the New Testament, Jesus Christ is referred to as the "Anointed One," or the Messiah.
Luke 4:18 records Jesus reading from the scroll of Isaiah, "The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He has anointed Me to preach good news to the poor." This declaration affirms Jesus' divine mission and the empowerment of the Holy Spirit in His ministry.
The anointing of believers is also a significant theme in the New Testament. 1
John 2:20 states, "You, however, have an anointing from the Holy One, and all of you know the truth." This verse suggests that all believers are anointed by the Holy Spirit, enabling them to discern truth and fulfill their God-given purposes.
Interconnection of Timing and AnointingThe interplay between God's timing and anointing is evident throughout Scripture. God's anointing often aligns with His perfect timing, ensuring that individuals are equipped and empowered precisely when needed. The account of Esther exemplifies this connection. Esther was placed in a position of influence "for such a time as this" (
Esther 4:14), highlighting the convergence of divine timing and anointing for the deliverance of the Jewish people.
In summary, God's timing and anointing are integral aspects of His divine plan, demonstrating His sovereignty and purpose in the lives of individuals and the unfolding of history. These themes encourage believers to trust in God's perfect timing and to rely on His anointing for the fulfillment of their calling.