God’s Presence and the Anointing

“So he said to me, ‘This is the word of the Lord to Zerubbabel: ‘Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,’ says the Lord Almighty.'” Zech 4:6

In the pages of the Bible, we see individuals whose lives were powerfully influenced by the presence and anointing of the Holy Spirit. Their stories reveal a common thread: they were ordinary people who were transformed into instruments of God’s will through the empowering work of the Holy Spirit.

Joshua, initially known as Moses’ faithful assistant, experienced a profound encounter with the Holy Spirit that changed the course of his life. Despite his humble beginnings, Joshua’s heart was drawn to the presence of God. Scripture recounts how Joshua remained in the tabernacle, seeking God’s presence even after Moses had returned to the camp (Exo 33:11). Just like Moses, the presence of God is a must in his life (Exo 33:15). Before his passing, Moses laid hands on Joshua, imparting the Spirit of Wisdom upon him (Deut 34:9). This anointing empowered Joshua to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land, overcoming formidable obstacles and establishing God’s kingdom on earth.

David’s journey from a shepherd boy to Israel’s greatest king exemplifies the transformative power of the Holy Spirit. Despite his lowly status, David’s heart was attuned to God’s will. Selected by God Himself, David was anointed by Samuel and received the Spirit’s guidance and empowerment (1 Sam 16:12–13). Throughout his life, David relied on the Holy Spirit’s presence and sought forgiveness when he strayed, recognising the Spirit as his most precious treasure. He cried out:

“Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me.” Psa 51:11

He wouldn’ continue as usual without the presence and the power of the Holy Spirit. The disciples say,
“This is how we know that we live in him and he in us: He has given us of his Spirit.” 1 John 4:13

Elisha’s story illustrates how the Holy Spirit equips individuals for their calling. Ploughing in the fields, Elisha received a divine call through Elijah to succeed him as a prophet (1 Kings 19:16). Elisha’s request for a double portion of Elijah’s spirit symbolised his desire for empowerment and led to his anointing by the Holy Spirit (2 Kings 2:9, 13). Elijah, who stood in the presence of God, taught Elisha to wait for the endowment from on high. (1 Kings 17:1, 2 Kings 2:9-15). Through the Spirit’s guidance, Elisha performed remarkable miracles and fulfilled his prophetic ministry.

These stories offer valuable lessons for us today. They remind us of the empowering presence of the Holy Spirit in our lives and the impact it can have. Like Joshua, David, and Elisha, we are called to seek God’s presence, obey His commands, and rely on the Spirit’s empowerment to fulfil our God-given purposes. As we yield to the Holy Spirit’s guidance, we can expect to see God’s kingdom advanced and His will accomplished in and through us.

Twelve ordinary men turned the entire world upside down with the power of the Holy Spirit. They were assured of God’s continuous abiding presence, and they went everywhere declaring the kingdom of God! There is no impossibility with God! As we continually seek His presence, trust in His promises, and walk in the fullness of His anointing, for with God, all things are possible.

Kay Alli