Prayer for Anointing
A.W. Tozer prays for spiritual anointing, deliverance from carnal ambitions, and the empowerment to be a good soldier of Jesus Christ.
A.W. Tozer emphasizes the urgent need for divine intervention in the face of false shepherds and the scattering of God's flock. He calls for spiritual preparation and an anointing that empowers believers to rise above worldly measures of success, such as church size and popularity. Tozer seeks healing from carnal ambitions and a deeper commitment to prayer, urging believers to engage in spiritual warfare against the darkness of this world. He reminds us of our identity as prophets rather than promoters, encouraging a focus on God's calling and self-discipline in our walk with Christ.
Text
It is time, 0 God, for Thee to work, for the enemy has entered into Thy pasture, and the sheep are torn and scattered. False shepherds abound who deny the danger and laugh at the perils which surround Thy flock. Lord Jesus, I come to Thee for spiritual preparation. Lay Thy hand upon me, anoint me with the oil of the New Testament prophet. Save me from the error of judging a church by its size, its popularity or the amount of its yearly offering. Help me to remember that I am a prophet - not a promoter, not a religious manager. Let me never become a slave to crowds.
Heal my soul of carnal ambitions and deliver me from the itch for publicity.
Lay Thy terror upon me, 0 God, and drive me to the place of prayer, where I may wrestle with principalities and powers and the rulers of the darkness of this world. Teach me self-discipline, that I may be a good soldier of Jesus Christ.
Sermon Outline
- The Need for Spiritual Preparation
- The Call to Spiritual Anointing
- The Dangers of Carnal Ambitions
- Heal my soul of carnal ambitions
- Deliver me from the itch for publicity
Key Quotes
“Save me from the error of judging a church by its size, its popularity or the amount of its yearly offering.” — A.W. Tozer
“Let me never become a slave to crowds.” — A.W. Tozer
“Lay Thy terror upon me, 0 God, and drive me to the place of prayer, where I may wrestle with principalities and powers and the rulers of the darkness of this world.” — A.W. Tozer
Application Points
- Recognize the danger of false shepherds and carnal ambitions in your own life.
- Seek spiritual preparation and anointing from God to be effective in your service.
- Prioritize self-discipline and prayer in your spiritual journey.