You anoint my head with oil; my cup runs over. (Psalm 23:5b)
We are reminded that this psalm describes the events in a full year in the life of a sheep, told from the perspective of the shepherd. Jesus Christ is the Good Shepherd, who gave His life for the sheep. He supplies every need of those who choose Him as their Shepherd. We have found that His care includes providing, protecting, propelling, and preparing. He wants us to “have life, and to have it more abundantly.” (John 10:10, 11)
You anoint my head with oil. Whether on the serene home range or in the sublime setting of the high meadows, there will be ‘flies in the ointment.’ While there might be clear running springs, fresh forage and close contact with the shepherd, there will always be little problems.
The first of these problems is flies. These flies come in many varieties including deer and black flies. But above all, the trouble is nasal flies. They get into the nose and lay their eggs. The larvae hatch and make their way up the nasal passages to the head. They cause such discomfort that the sheep will beat their heads against anything. They stamp their feet, run wildly, and hide in the brush, unable to eat. These pests can cause blindness. Sheep have even been known to kill themselves for relief.
What is the solution? The shepherd, at the very first sign of these flies, applies an antidote to their heads. It is usually something like a combination of linseed oil, sulphur, and tar.
Once applied, the change is instantaneous. The sheep are quiet and content.
These flies remind us of the petty annoyances that we allow to ruin our repose. Life is full of these. If we let them bother us, they can destroy our lives!
The second problem sheep face is scab. A microscopic parasite causes scab, which spreads rapidly by contact. Sheep love to rub against each other, and it doesn’t take long for it to spread. When the Scripture speaks of ‘a lamb without blemish,’ it is referring to something like this scab. The same solution is needed, except in this case the entire body needs the ointment. The shepherd uses a dipping tank, at great expense, time, and labor—but it is worth it.
This reminds us of sin, which is often spread by our contacts with others. Teens especially need to be mindful of peer pressure. All of us can be influenced by the world system and by the mass media of our day.
The third problem is rut. As fall approaches, mating season begins. The necks of the rams grow stronger, and they begin to strut proudly. They fight furiously by crashing their heads into one another. The shepherd can minimize the harm that this causes by early on catching the rams and smearing their heads with grease. When they knock into each other, they glance off comically.
Sadly, because they have been hurt, many people quit going to church, or have quit serving in their church. Some past rivalry or painful experience has kept them from vibrant service for the Lord. Yet, Christians should be known as the most contented people on earth.
What is the spiritual answer to all of these things? In each case, it is the Holy Spirit.
He lives within the believer, and He desires to fill or anoint us daily. (Ephesians 5:18) This demands a daily confession of sin and a fresh yielding of ourselves to His control.
Only when I allow the Holy Spirit to have complete control of my life can I say: My cup runs over (25b).