Freely Speaking Audio Devotion

Welcome to Freely Speaking, an OHSOFREE devotional ministry where we share our hearts and trust God for transformation.

Today’s devotion was written by Tyla Yauk.

Our scripture reading is from Hebrews 1:9 NASB.

“You have loved righteousness and hated lawlessness; therefore God, your God, has anointed you with the oil of joy above your companions” (Hebrews 1:9 NASB2020).

I hadn’t heard the term “oil of joy” until one of my friends prayed it over me. It created so much curiosity that I looked it up. Sure enough, there it is. In Psalms 45:7 and Hebrews 1:9, the passages speak of Jesus receiving this anointing over Him.

This imagery fascinates me and resonates deep in my heart. Like warm oil poured over my head, countenance, body, and limbs. Even my voice and mannerisms change. I know people around me can sense my joy; it feels exhilarating.

I long for this feeling to be permanent and imagine what it will be like to have everlasting joy in heaven. What glory!

Unfortunately, while on earth, a battle is waged against us. A deceiver wants to steal our joy and leave us empty. Faced with feelings of unworthiness and shame, the lies from the devil can build up in our brains and steal our joy. This is the opposite of what God wants for us. Can you relate?

I am learning to fight this battle daily on my journey to be closer to the Lord. One way is to reach out to mature spiritual friends to help debunk the lies in my head. I also read scripture passages on the same topic or write about my painful feelings until the truth is revealed.

The cycle is eventually broken when I can clearly see the image of Christ and who He is to me, the earthly embodiment of God, who chose to sacrifice Himself for me. Knowing that I am deeply loved despite my flaws and that my Father sees me as He sees His righteous son allows me to walk right up to my heavenly Father and hug Him without sin and shame.

Because of God’s love, my joy returns.

Have you felt joy flow over your body like warm oil? Would you share an example with us so we can share in your blessings?

Thank you for joining us today. If you would like to learn more about OhSoFree Ministries, please visit us at www.ohsofreeministries.com/