Anointed with Oil: Finding Identity When Everything Falls Apart

Followed By Mercy

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Ever feel like you’re hanging on by a thread? Like David hiding in a cave, surrounded by trouble, wondering if you’ll ever see daylight again? That’s exactly where Psalm 23 comes alive, especially those simple words, “thou anointest my head with oil.”

This episode, “Followed by Mercy,” goes below the surface of Psalm 23 and digs deep into what it means to be anointed in the valley. Our Shepherd applying the oil wasn't just a nice touch; it was a healing, protective, and comforting gesture for the wounded sheep. For David, it was God’s quiet reminder that, even on the run and feeling like an outcast, he was still chosen and dearly loved.

You may feel anything but chosen right now. Your mind replays every accusation, every failure, and every fear. But here’s the truth: your Father loves you exactly as He loves Jesus. You are not your wounds, not your worst moments, and not what others say about you. In Christ, you are a new creation, marked and valued by God Himself.

What gets us through the darkest valleys isn’t just positive thinking or hoping life gets easier. It’s learning to see our Shepherd who applies His healing oil right when we need it most. David’s story shows us that when we remember who God is, we remember who we are in Him. No valley is final. No wound is too deep. Your Shepherd is still anointing your head with oil, claiming you as His beloved, and walking with you every step of the way.

If you’re worn out or feeling forgotten, this episode is for you. There’s hope. You’re not alone. And you are still followed by mercy.

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Chapters

1. David in Psalm 23: Enemies and Tables (00:00:00)

2. Anointing Oil: Healing and Identity (00:00:44)

3. You Are Who God Says You Are (00:02:22)

4. God's Love Transcends Circumstances (00:05:20)

5. Finding Hope in Your Shepherd (00:08:57)