35 Bible Verses About Anointing

Discover the powerful and transformative role of anointing in the Bible, and how it impacts your spiritual journey today. From the Old Testament to the New Testament, this sacred act has profound significance that can change your life. Ready to learn how God’s anointing can empower you? Dive into these powerful Bible verses and experience it for yourself!

What Does the Bible Say About Anointing?

The Bible presents anointing as a deeply meaningful and symbolic act that has been practiced for many years, revealing not only a physical action but a powerful spiritual truth. In Scripture, the application of oil on a person or object was used to show that it was set apart by God for a special purpose. This divine action indicates someone has been chosen for a specific role or task, and the anointing becomes a clear sign of God’s blessing and presence. Whether it’s kings, prophets, or sacred items in the temple, the purpose behind their anointing is rich with significance.

As someone who has studied and taught biblical principles for over a decade, I’ve seen how this ancient act speaks to us even today. I once witnessed a small church anoint a new pastor with oil in prayer it wasn’t just ritual; it was sacred. The sense of being set apart by God for a holy task felt tangible. It reminded me that the presence of God truly rests where He has chosen to dwell.

Old Testament

Here are some powerful examples of anointing found in the Old Testament, each revealing how God’s presence and purpose were marked by this sacred act.

Genesis 31:13

• I am the God of Bethel, where you poured oil on a pillar and made a promise to me. Now get up, leave this place, and go back to your own land. – Genesis 31:13

In this verse, God is speaking to Jacob, reminding him of the time he met God at Bethel, set up a stone pillar, and made a promise. God tells him to get up and go back to his family’s land, trusting that He will be with him.

I had a time in life when I felt far from where I first felt close to God. Just like Jacob, I felt God telling me to come back to that simple trust and faith I once had. That moment helped me remember my promise to God and gave me courage to move forward again.

Exodus 28:41

• You must pour oil on them, give them their duties, and set them apart, so they can serve me as priests. – Exodus 28:41

In this verse, God tells Moses to prepare Aaron and his sons for their work as priests by pouring oil on them, giving them their roles, and making them ready to serve. It shows that God gives people special jobs and helps them get ready for it.

I remember when I first felt God wanted me to do something for Him. I didn’t feel good enough, but deep down I knew He was calling me. Like Aaron, I just had to trust and take that first step.

Exodus 37:29

• He made the special oil for pouring and the sweet-smelling incense done by someone who knew how to mix scents well. – Exodus 37:29

This verse shows how a skilled person carefully made the holy anointing oil and nice-smelling incense for worship. It reminds us that even simple things, when made with care and respect for God, become special and set apart for Him.

One time, I made a small prayer space at home and used a soft scent to help me focus. It wasn’t fancy, but I did it from the heart. That simple act helped me feel closer to God, just like the care they showed when making the oil and incense.

Exodus 40:10

• You must pour oil on the altar for burnt offerings and all its tools, and set the altar apart as holy. – Exodus 40:10

In this verse, God tells Moses to anoint and set apart the altar and its tools, making them holy. This act turns simple items into sacred ones, meant for serving God through worship and offerings.

I’ve had times when something ordinary in my life became special just because I gave it to God. Like the altar, when I set aside time or things for Him, they take on a new purpose that feels deeply meaningful.

Leviticus 6:22

• The priest who is chosen from his sons to take his place shall offer it; this is a rule for all time to the LORD. – Leviticus 6:22

This verse talks about the priest who, being anointed by God, has the duty to keep offering sacrifices to the LORD. This responsibility is meant to continue forever, passed down to Aaron’s sons to carry on the sacred work.

I’ve realized that some tasks in life, like the priest’s role in this verse, are meant to be carried on by others after us. I’ve had times when I had to continue something important, knowing my actions would make a difference for the future.

1 Samuel 2:10

• The enemies of the LORD will be broken to pieces; He will thunder against them from heaven. The LORD will judge the whole earth; He will give strength to His king and lift up the power of His anointed one. – 1 Samuel 2:10

This verse talks about how the LORD will defeat His enemies, breaking them into pieces. He will thunder from heaven and judge everyone, giving strength to His king and raising up the power of His chosen one.

I’ve had times when everything felt like it was falling apart, but I’ve felt God’s strength lifting me up, like He was protecting me from my enemies. In those moments, I realized how He exalts those who trust in Him, just as He promises in this verse.

1 Samuel 2:35

• I will raise up for Myself a faithful priest, who shall do according to what is in My heart and in My mind. I will build him a sure house, and he shall walk before My anointed forever. – 1 Samuel 2:35

This verse talks about how God will choose a faithful priest who will follow His will with all his heart and mind. God promises to give him a lasting house, and this priest will serve before His chosen one forever.

In my own life, I’ve felt God calling me to be more faithful in following His guidance. When I trust in His plans, I can see how He raises me up and helps me walk in the right direction. It’s comforting to know that God has a sure plan for me, and I am not alone in this journey.

1 Samuel 9:16

• Tomorrow at this time I will send you a man from the land of Benjamin, and you will anoint him to be the leader over My people Israel. He will save My people from the Philistines. I have heard the cry of My people because they are suffering. – 1 Samuel 9:16

In this verse, God tells Samuel He will send a man from Benjamin to become the leader of Israel. This anointed man will rescue the Israelites from the Philistines. God hears His people’s cry and answers by sending help.

In my own life, I’ve had times when I felt overwhelmed, and God has answered me, sometimes by sending the right person to give me support or advice at just the right moment. It’s amazing to know that when we call out, God hears us and often responds through the people He places in our path.

1 Samuel 15:1

• Samuel said to Saul, ‘The LORD sent me to choose you as king over His people Israel. Now pay attention to the words of the LORD.’ – 1 Samuel 15:1

This verse shows that God told Samuel to choose Saul as the king over His people. It also points out how important it is to listen to God’s words to lead well. Saul’s leadership depended on his willingness to follow God’s direction.

From my experience, I’ve learned that being a leader, whether in small or big ways, requires listening closely to God’s guidance. When I make the effort to listen to His words, I find that things go more smoothly and I am more at peace with my decisions. It really does make a difference in how we live and lead.

1 Samuel 16:3

• Call Jesse to the offering, and I will show you what to do. You must choose and pour oil on the one I tell you.–1 Samuel 16:3

This verse shows how God gave simple and clear instructions to Samuel. He was to go to Jesse’s house, prepare a special offering, and wait for God to pick the right person. It teaches us that when God leads, we should be ready to listen and follow His voice with trust.

In my life, I’ve had times when I didn’t know what step to take next. But just like Samuel, when I asked God and waited patiently, He always showed me the right way. It reminded me that His plan is always better than mine, even if I don’t understand it right away.

1 Samuel 16:11–13

• Then Samuel asked Jesse, “Are these all your sons?”, Jesse replied, “My youngest is still out taking care of the sheep.” Samuel said, “Send for him. We won’t sit down to eat until he gets here.” So Jesse sent for him. He was healthy-looking, had kind eyes, and looked nice. Then the Lord said, “Get up and pour oil on him. He’s the one.” So Samuel took the horn of oil and poured it on David in front of his brothers. From that day on, the Lord’s Spirit came powerfully on David. Then Samuel went back to Ramah.–1 Samuel 16:11–13

God chose David, the youngest son, who was just a shepherd boy. Even though others didn’t see his value, God saw his heart. This shows that God’s choice is not about appearance but about the heart and purpose.

I remember feeling like I didn’t stand out or have anything special, but this verse reminds me that God can choose anyone, even the quiet or unnoticed ones. When I trusted Him, I felt His guidance in ways I never expected.

1 Samuel 24:6

• David said to his men, “The LORD forbid that I should do this to my lord, the one God has chosen, or harm him; because he is the LORD’s chosen one.” David stopped his men with these words and didn’t let them hurt Saul. Then Saul got up, left the cave, and went on his way.–1 Samuel 24:6

In this verse, David decides not to harm King Saul, even though Saul has been trying to kill him. David shows respect for Saul because Saul is chosen by God, reminding us of the importance of honoring God’s authority, no matter how hard it may seem.

This verse has always reminded me to stay calm and trust in God’s plan, even when I feel mistreated. It’s easy to want to fight back, but just like David, I’ve learned that trusting God’s timing and respecting His choices can bring peace and understanding.

1 Samuel 26:9

• David said to Abishai, “Don’t harm him! Who can touch the LORD’s chosen and be innocent?”–1 Samuel 26:9

Here, David refuses to hurt Saul, even though Saul has been trying to kill him. David believes that because Saul is God’s chosen king, only God has the right to judge him. David trusts that God will take care of the situation in His own time.

There have been times when I felt like I needed to get revenge or fix things myself, but I’ve found that trusting God to handle the tough situations gives me peace. It’s hard, but I’ve learned that God’s timing and judgment are always the best.

2 Samuel 5:3

• 2 Samuel 5:3,” “So all the leaders of Israel came to David at Hebron, and David made a promise with them before the LORD, and they poured oil on David to make him king over Israel.–2 Samuel 5:3

This verse shows the moment when David became the king over all of Israel. The leaders came together at Hebron to make a promise with David, and they poured oil on him to mark his anointing as the king, which was done under the guidance of the LORD.

I have had experiences where I’ve stepped into roles I didn’t expect, but looking back, I can see how God was guiding me every step of the way. Like David, there are times when we don’t see the bigger picture, but trusting God’s plan helps everything fall into place when the time is right.

2 Kings 9:6

• 2 Kings 9:6,” “So the young man went to Jehu and poured the oil on his head and said to him, ‘This is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says: I have made you king over the people of Israel.’–2 Kings 9:6

In this verse, a messenger follows God’s command to anoint Jehu as the new king. The oil on his head shows that God has chosen him for this important role, giving him the responsibility to lead Israel.

I once found myself stepping into a leadership role I never expected. Just like Jehu, I had doubts at first, but as I relied on God, I realized He had already prepared me for it. It’s comforting to know that when God chooses us, He also equips us for what He calls us to do.

Psalm 2:2–6

• The kings of the earth take a stand, and the leaders make plans together, against the LORD and against His Chosen One, saying, Let us break their chains and throw away their ropes. The One who sits in the heavens will laugh at them; the LORD will make fun of them. Then He will speak to them in His anger and make them scared in His great anger. But I have placed My King on My holy hill in Zion.–Psalm 2:2–6

This passage talks about the leaders of the world trying to oppose God and His Chosen One. But God is not worried. He laughs at their plans and reminds them that His King, chosen for His purpose, will be in charge. No matter what, God’s will cannot be stopped.

I’ve had moments when I’ve felt surrounded by challenges, but this verse always reminds me that no matter how big the obstacle seems, God’s plan for me will always stand strong. It’s comforting to know that when the world pushes against His will, He remains in control.

Psalm 18:49–50

• Because of this, I will thank You, O LORD, in front of the nations, and sing praises to Your name. You bring great salvation to Your king, and show Your unfailing love to Your chosen one, to David and his children forever.–Psalm 18:49–50

This verse talks about thanking God and praising His name for the salvation He brings to the king. It also reminds us of God’s unfailing love for His chosen one, especially David and his family, showing that God’s promises are forever.

Whenever I think about God’s love, I feel deeply thankful like David. His unfailing love has always helped me through tough times, and I trust that His promises will always hold true, just like they did for David and his family.

Psalm 20:6

• Now I know that the LORD helps His chosen one; He will answer him from His holy place in heaven with His strong right hand that brings victory.–Psalm 20:6

This verse means that God takes care of the one He has picked and gives help from heaven. His power is strong enough to rescue and protect, and He listens when we call out to Him.

I remember a time when I felt stuck and didn’t know what to do. I prayed and asked God for help, and though things didn’t change right away, I felt a calm inside. That peace gave me the strength to keep going, and soon after, doors began to open.

Psalm 23:5

• You set a meal for me, right in front of my enemies, You put oil on my head, and my cup is full and running over.–Psalm 23:5 

This verse tells us that God gives us everything we need, even when we’re facing trouble. The meal shows His care, the oil is a sign that we are special to Him, and the cup that’s running over means He gives us more than enough.

There was a time when I felt left out and misunderstood. But during that season, God gave me peace, kind people, and new chances that lifted me up. His love felt like a full cup more than I could ask for.

Psalm 28:8

• The LORD is the power for His people, a safe place to go, and a helper for His chosen ones.–Psalm 28:8

This verse tells us that God gives us power when we feel weak. He keeps us safe and helps those He has picked to do His work.

There were moments in my life when I felt tired and had no answers. But when I talked to God and trusted Him, I felt strong again. It was like He wrapped me in peace and reminded me that I belong to Him and He will always help me.

Psalm 45:7

• You love what is right and hate what is wrong; so God, your God, has chosen you and filled you with joy more than anyone else.–Psalm 45:7

This verse shows how important it is to choose what is good and turn away from what is bad. Because of this, God blesses those who live this way by filling them with joy that’s greater than anything else. 

I’ve felt this in my own life when I chose to do what’s right, even when it was hard. Even though it wasn’t easy, the peace and happiness I felt after made me realize how much better it is to follow God’s way.

Psalm 89:20–21

• I have chosen David, my servant; with my holy oil I have blessed him. My hand will help him, and my strength will make him strong.–Psalm 89:20–21

This verse shows how God chose David to serve Him and blessed him with holy oil. God’s hand and strength would always be there to help and make him strong for the work ahead.

I’ve experienced times in my life where I felt God’s help and strength in tough situations. Just like David, when I felt blessed and supported by Him, I found the courage to keep going.

Isaiah 61:1

• The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me, because the LORD has anointed me to bring good news to the poor; he has sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to announce freedom to the captives, and the opening of the prison to those who are trapped. –Isaiah 61:1 

This verse is about how God’s Spirit empowers those chosen by Him to share good news, heal those who are hurting, and offer freedom to people who feel trapped, whether by sin or life’s struggles. It reminds us that God’s mission is to bring hope, healing, and freedom to all who are suffering.

Personally, there have been times in my life when I felt stuck or broken. But I’ve found strength in knowing that God’s Spirit is always there to help heal my heart and set me free. Isaiah 61:1 has reminded me that no matter what we face, God’s anointing is always there to bring us freedom and peace.

Daniel 9:24

• Seventy weeks are decided for your people and your holy city, to finish wrongdoing, to end sin, to pay for mistakes, to bring in lasting rightness, to complete vision and message, and to anoint the most holy place.–Daniel 9:24

This verse talks about God’s plan to cleanse His people and set everything right. The anointing here represents God’s holy presence that will purify and make all things good, completing the promise and bringing peace for His people.

In my own life, I’ve felt God’s work in a similar way. There were times when I felt weighed down by my mistakes, but through prayer and giving it all to God, I felt a powerful anointing that healed my heart and helped me find peace and hope again.

Habakkuk 3:13

• You went out for the salvation of Your people, for the chosen one; You crushed the head of the evil ones, laying bare the foundation of their house, and striking their thigh and neck. Selah– Habakkuk 3:13

This verse shows God fighting for His people, helping the chosen one defeat the evil ones. God’s power is clear as He destroys those who do wrong and makes their secrets known, showing His justice.

I’ve experienced this kind of strength in my own life when things felt impossible. There have been moments when I’ve seen God step in, making a way where I saw none, and giving me the strength to keep going. His protection and power bring a deep peace and confidence that I hold onto.

New Testament

Here are some enlightening verses on anointing from the New Testament, showing its deep spiritual significance and God’s continuing blessing.

Luke 4:18

• You came to save Your people, to save Your chosen one; You defeated the wicked ones, striking them down from head to neck. Selah.–Habakkuk 3:13

In this verse, God is shown as coming to rescue His people and His chosen one by defeating evil. The action of striking the head represents a strong victory over bad forces, showing how God’s power protects and saves.

I’ve had times when I felt completely surrounded by problems, but through prayer, I’ve felt God’s strength and protection. Just like in this verse, He shows up to fight for us, bringing peace and freedom when we need it the most.

Luke 7:38

• She stood behind Him at His feet, weeping, and began to wet His feet with her tears. She wiped them with her hair, kissed them, and anointed them with ointment.– Luke 7:38

In this verse, a woman shows her deep humility and love by weeping at Jesus’ feet and anointing them with ointment. It is a beautiful picture of repentance and worship, where the tears of sorrow are turned into an act of love and devotion.

I’ve experienced moments of deep reflection where, much like this woman, I’ve felt so overwhelmed by God’s love and forgiveness. It’s humbling to remember how He anoints us with His grace, even when we feel unworthy. Just like the woman’s tears, God receives our heart’s offering with love.

John 9:10–11

• They asked him, ‘How did your eyes open?’ He answered, ‘The man named Jesus made mud and rubbed it on my eyes, and told me, “Go to the Siloam pool and wash.” So I went, washed, and now I can see.’–John 9:10–11 

In this story, Jesus healed a blind man by putting mud on his eyes and telling him to wash in the Siloam pool. After doing what Jesus said, the man got his sight back. This miracle shows how Jesus has the power to heal and help us see clearly.

I’ve had moments in my life where I felt lost or unable to understand what was happening. But just like this man, when I trusted Jesus’ guidance, I began to see things more clearly. It’s a powerful reminder that following God’s direction can bring us healing and clarity, even in difficult times.

Acts 10:37–38

• You yourselves know what happened throughout Judea, beginning in Galilee after the baptism that John proclaimed: how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power. He went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with him.–Acts 10:37–38 

This verse speaks of how Jesus was anointed with the Holy Spirit and power by God to bring healing and freedom to those oppressed by the devil. His anointing empowered Him to do good, offering both spiritual and physical restoration.

In my own life, I’ve witnessed how God’s anointing can transform a difficult situation. When facing challenges, I’ve felt His presence, like a fresh outpouring of Holy Spirit and power, lifting me and providing healing just as Jesus did for those He encountered. It reminds me that His anointing is always available for restoration and strength.

2 Corinthians 1:21–22

• It is God who makes us strong together with you in Christ, and He has anointed us. He has also put His mark on us and gave us His Spirit in our hearts as a promise. –2 Corinthians 1:21–22

This verse shows that it is God who makes us secure in Christ and anoints us, marking us with His seal. The Holy Spirit in our hearts is a promise that God is with us, ensuring that He will complete His work in our lives.

From my own experience, I’ve felt this promise especially during tough times. The presence of the Holy Spirit inside me has been a constant reminder that God is with me and that I am set apart for a reason. It gives me the peace and courage to keep going, knowing I’m not facing life alone.

Hebrews 1:8–9

• But about the Son, He says: ‘Your throne, O God, will last forever and ever, and the scepter of Your kingdom is a scepter of uprightness. You have loved righteousness and hated wickedness; that’s why God, Your God, has anointed You with the oil of gladness more than Your companions.’–Hebrews 1:8–9 

This verse talks about how the Son’s rule is forever, and His kingdom is based on righteousness and fairness. God has chosen and anointed Him with the oil of joy, making Him stand out among all others.

In my own life, I’ve found that when I choose to follow what is right and righteous, it brings me peace and happiness that nothing else can give. Even during tough times, I’ve felt God’s blessing and joy in my heart, like a gentle reminder of His love and strength in my life.

1 John 2:20

• But you have been anointed by the Holy One, and you all have knowledge.–1 John 2:20

This verse shows that God has given us His special blessing, the anointing, which helps us understand His truth and plan for us. It means that we are gifted with knowledge and spiritual understanding from Him. 

In my experience, I’ve felt how God’s anointing has helped me make better decisions and find clear direction when I’ve needed it most. It’s a constant reminder that He is guiding us through His wisdom and understanding.

1 John 2:27

• But the anointing you received from Him stays in you, and you don’t need anyone to teach you. The same anointing teaches you about everything, and it’s truth, not a lie. Just as it has taught you, you will stay in Him.–1 John 2:27 

This verse tells us that the anointing we get from God stays with us, helping us understand what’s true. The Holy Spirit is our teacher, guiding us so we don’t need to rely on others to know what’s right.

From my own experience, I’ve learned that trusting in the anointing of the Holy Spirit brings clarity. In times of doubt, I feel led by His presence, reminding me that I can rely on Him for wisdom and guidance in every situation. It’s a powerful feeling to know that God is always teaching me.

Conclusion

In conclusion, anointing in the Bible symbolizes God’s divine empowerment, calling, and healing. Whether seen in the Old or New Testament, anointing represents God’s holiness, spiritual strength, and restoration, reminding believers of His presence and purpose in their lives. It is a powerful act that sets individuals apart for God’s special plan.

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