Anointing & Intimacy


Vermeer Mary & Martha
Originally uploaded by jimforest
Mary has chosen what is better,
and it will not be taken away from her.
Luke 10:41

I wonder what we really desire most in our walk with God? Anointing or intimacy? The gifts or the Giver? Power or Presence? The Bible seems to suggest that it is possible to operate in an anointing and gifting from God yet still be far from Him. Look at King Saul. His anointing as king had been taken by God because of his disobedience, but for some time afterwards he continued to prophesy. Jesus himself said; Many will say to me on that day, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?' Then I will tell them plainly, 'I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers. Matthew 7:22-23. Such things are hard to understand!


I guess these spiritual gifts will not be needed in heaven so they are transient and given to get us to a place of faith and trust in Jesus Christ. The thing that will remain is that intimate love relationship with Him that we can cultivate here on earth, just as Mary recognised.


It is good to seek power and gifts, and Paul exhorts us to; But eagerly desire the greater gifts. 1 Corinthians 12:31. We need them desparately. But let's check our priorities and motives and make sure we are seeking the better thing like Mary.

Comments

retha said…
This is truth!
Maybe, it is a bit like when GOD came to walk with Adam?
"Many will say to me on that day, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?' Then I will tell them plainly, 'I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers. Matthew 7:22-23." Perhaps, it means that the prophesy, healing and casting out is not more important than staying with the sick and dying who were not healed. Feeding the hungry with food and not just the word. Loving those who are hard to love and never boasting about these works of charity. For God already knows our heart. We become simple, humble and continue to do these works as long as required, quietly.

Very good post, Mike. Caused me to think about how I want to be perceived instead of how I am already known by the God who made me. Imagine, telling God how He should see me. I think I need to work on that perception, especially on humility.
Susan said…
One of my favorite verses about Mary is "She pondered these things in her heart." Being a mother, I can really relate to this.
Susan
TMM said…
Amen, right on Mike.

All the supernatural gifts in 1 Cor 12 are important and holy...they proceed from the Lord, and is operated by the Holy Spirit.

But if it isn't done in love, it's worth nothing.

Sidharth
One of my favorites, the example of Mary and Martha. I always thank Jesus for these stories, things that I can relate to, things that I sometimes struggle with. I've been too much of a Martha of late, working hard to do the right thing. I need to take some time to let it go and rest in the love of my Lord. Thank you, Mike!
Barbara said…
The Giver over the gift anytime. Good post and so true Mike.
Another truly beautiful sky.
Melanie said…
I want it all! I focus on the Giver..my God....I love Him..I obey the Great commandment..and all the other..the gifts, anointings, and things always seems to be right there...helping me work out my salvation.

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