The Anointing Makes The Difference

THE ANOINTING MAKES THE DIFFERENCE

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Isaiah 61:1-3

"The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me; because the Lord hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound; To proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all that mourn; To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that he might be glorified."

Supporting Texts: 1 Samuel 16:13, Acts 10:38, Zechariah 4:6, 1 John 2:27, Luke 4:18

INTRODUCTION

The anointing is the divine empowerment that sets a person apart for God’s purpose. Throughout Scripture, we see how the anointing distinguishes individuals and enables them to fulfil divine assignments. In Isaiah 61:1-3, the prophet speaks of the anointing that brings transformation—healing the brokenhearted, setting captives free, and turning mourning into joy.

Without the anointing, human efforts can only achieve limited results. However, when the anointing is at work, the supernatural is made manifest. Acts 10:38 says, "How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him." The anointing makes the difference in ministry, career, leadership, and every aspect of life.

This sermon will explore what the anointing is, its impact, how to receive it, and how to sustain it.

1. WHAT IS THE ANOINTING?

The anointing is God’s supernatural empowerment upon a person.

a) The anointing is the power of the Holy Spirit (Zechariah 4:6)

It is not by human strength but by the Spirit of God.

b) The anointing sets people apart for divine purposes (1 Samuel 16:13)

David was anointed, and the Spirit of God came upon him mightily.

c) The anointing enables supernatural results (Acts 1:8)

It gives believers power to be effective witnesses.

d) The anointing destroys yokes and removes burdens (Isaiah 10:27)

It breaks every limitation and oppression.

e) Biblical Example: Jesus’ Ministry (Luke 4:18-19)

Jesus declared that the Spirit of the Lord was upon Him to bring deliverance.

2. THE IMPACT OF THE ANOINTING

When the anointing is present, there are undeniable results.

a) The anointing brings divine wisdom (Exodus 31:2-3)

Bezalel was anointed with wisdom for craftsmanship.

b) The anointing produces boldness and courage (Acts 4:31)

The apostles spoke with boldness after being filled with the Spirit.

c) The anointing enables miraculous works (Mark 16:17-18)

Signs and wonders follow those anointed by God.

d) The anointing brings divine favour (Esther 2:17)

Esther found favour before the king because of God’s presence.

e) Biblical Example: Moses and the Red Sea (Exodus 14:21-22)

By divine empowerment, Moses parted the Red Sea.

3. HOW TO RECEIVE THE ANOINTING

God releases the anointing to those who seek Him.

a) Desire and thirst for the anointing (Matthew 5:6)

Those who hunger for God shall be filled.

b) Consecrate yourself unto the Lord (2 Timothy 2:21)

Purity attracts the anointing.

c) Spend time in prayer and worship (Acts 1:14, 2:1-4)

The disciples received power after praying in unity.

d) Study and meditate on God’s Word (Joshua 1:8)

The Word of God fuels the anointing.

e) Biblical Example: Elisha Receiving Elijah’s Mantle (2 Kings 2:9-15)

Elisha followed Elijah closely and received a double portion.

4. HOW TO SUSTAIN THE ANOINTING

The anointing can be lost if not properly maintained.

a) Maintain a lifestyle of holiness (Psalm 24:3-4)

Sin quenches the anointing.

b) Stay connected to the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 5:18)

Continual infilling keeps the anointing fresh.

c) Remain humble and dependent on God (James 4:6)

Pride repels the anointing.

d) Serve God faithfully (John 12:26)

The anointing increases with service.

e) Biblical Example: Samson’s Loss and Restoration (Judges 16:20-22)

Samson lost his anointing due to compromise but was restored through repentance.

CONCLUSION

The anointing makes all the difference in life and ministry. It empowers believers to operate beyond human limitations and accomplish divine purposes. Without the anointing, struggles increase, but with it, yokes are broken, and victories are won. Isaiah 61:1-3 reminds us that the anointing is meant to bring transformation and healing to lives.

Do you desire the anointing? Seek God with all your heart, walk in obedience, and cultivate a lifestyle of prayer and worship. God is ready to pour out fresh oil upon you. May you walk in the power of the anointing and fulfil your divine assignment!

PRAYER POINTS

1. Lord, anoint me afresh with Your power.

2. Every yoke in my life, be broken by the anointing.

3. Father, let my life manifest the supernatural daily.

4. Holy Spirit, increase Your fire within me.

5. Lord, use me as a vessel to impact my generation.