Anointed and Adorned

We who trust in God and His Word, and in His Son, HaMeshiach Yeshua, have been anointed in Him with the gift of His Holy Spirit. This anointing, מָשַׁח (mashach), signifies more than a ritual act; it embodies divine empowerment, consecration, and God’s selection for His purposes. To be anointed is to be set apart, prepared by God to shine His light in the world. As the Apostle John reminds us in John 3:27, “A person can receive nothing unless it has been given from heaven.” This truth underlines that every gift, every opportunity, and every blessing is not earned by human effort but granted by God’s grace.

We are adorned with His love and covered by the redemptive blood of HaMeshiach, דָּם הַמָּשִׁיחַ (dam haMashiach), signifying purity, protection, and the assurance of salvation. Adornment is both internal and external, manifesting as faithfulness, obedience, and a life transformed by God’s presence. As we cultivate our faith, we rejoice in the hope of His coming and in the crowns promised to those who remain steadfast. These crowns are not mere symbols, but spiritual realities reflecting perseverance, holiness, and obedience.

Believers who embrace the Gospel recognize that Yeshua came to save all of creation. As they examine themselves and remain faithful unto death, they join the elect, gathered from every generation. Revelation 20:6 declares, “Blessed and holy is the one who shares in the first resurrection. The second death has no power over them, but they will be priests of God and of HaMeshiach, and will reign with Him for a thousand years.” This verse reminds us that victory is both present and future: now in our priestly life in the Spirit, and ultimately at the return of HaMeshiach.

God, in His infinite wisdom, assigns us works to maintain our anointing and adornment. These works refine our faith and holiness, helping us walk in alignment with His purposes. While His commandments are the foundation, HaMeshiach summarized them succinctly in Matthew 22:36-40. When asked which commandment is greatest, He said, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself. All the law and the prophets depend on these two commandments.”

The Hebrew word אַהֲבָה (ahavah), love, captures active devotion, loyalty, and covenantal commitment. Our hearts naturally gravitate toward God and toward love for others, even amidst trials and temptations. This love sustains us, reminding us that nothing in this life compares to the eternal reward that awaits.

The Crowns of Believers

The crowns awaiting believers are richly layered, each revealing aspects of God’s character and our response.

The Incorruptible Crown (στέφανος ἀφθαρσίας – stephanos aphtharsias). 1 Corinthians 15:52 proclaims, “The dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed.” This crown reflects triumph over sin and mortality. 1 Peter 1:3-5 emphasizes the inheritance reserved in heaven, secured by God’s power. To pursue this crown, believers exercise discipline and integrity. 1 Corinthians 9:25-27 teaches, “Everyone who competes in the games exercises self-control in all things. I discipline my body and bring it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified.” Even those who teach and lead must safeguard their own walk of faith.

The Crown of Rejoicing (stephanos chara). 1 Thessalonians 2:19 tells us, “Our hope and joy are found in the faith of those we have led to HaMeshiach.” This crown reflects the shared joy of shepherding others in faith. Like a parent rejoicing in a child’s growth, our hearts overflow as we witness the spiritual progress of those we influence. This joy magnifies at HaMeshiach’s return, showing that faith is both personal and communal.

The Crown of Righteousness (stephanos dikaiosynes). Paul writes in 2 Timothy 4:8, “A crown of righteousness is reserved for me, the righteous Judge will award it on that day, and not only to me but also to all who have longed for His appearing.” Hunger and thirst for righteousness, as Yeshua teaches in Matthew 5:6, prepare believers to be filled with God’s righteousness. True righteousness surpasses legalistic obedience, reflecting selfless love, mercy, and compassion, the very heart of HaMeshiach (Matthew 5:20).

The Crown of Life (stephanos zoes). James 1:12 reminds us, “Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial. When they have stood the test, they will receive the crown of life, which the Lord has promised to those who love Him.” Trials refine faith and fortify perseverance. God’s presence and guidance, as affirmed in Luke 12:11-12, sustain us during persecution or temptation. Revelation 2:10 promises, “Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you the crown of life.” Tribulation produces perseverance, character, and hope (Romans 5:3-5).

The Crown of Glory (stephanos doxes). 1 Peter 5:1-4 exhorts leaders to shepherd God’s flock willingly and faithfully, promising, “When the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive a crown of glory that will never fade.” Leadership is sacred, requiring humility and faithful service. James 3:1 warns, “Not many of you should become teachers, knowing that we will be judged more strictly.” Leaders must reflect HaMeshiach’s servant heart, guiding others by example, not by self-interest.

Anointing in Daily Life

The anointing is active, not passive. It equips us to serve, minister, and manifest God’s character. Neglect dulls it like a gem left unpolished. Ephesians 2:10 reminds us, “We are God’s workmanship, created in HaMeshiach Yeshua to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” Our works polish the crowns, nurture our faith, and strengthen our spiritual life.

Transformative Power of Crowns

Each crown symbolizes transformation:

• The Incorruptible Crown marks victory over sin and the world.

• The Crown of Rejoicing reflects shared joy in faith.

• The Crown of Righteousness anchors us in holy living and anticipation of HaMeshiach’s return.

• The Crown of Life celebrates endurance.

• The Crown of Glory underscores servant leadership and accountability.

Our adornment flows from inner renewal. 2 Corinthians 5:17 declares, “If anyone is in HaMeshiach, they are a new creation. The old has gone; the new has come!” Transformation affects how we love, serve, and extend grace.

Hope, Faithfulness, and the Race of Life

The assurance of these crowns provides hope amidst trials. Being anointed and adorned is both identity and calling. Through obedience, devotion, and faithful living, we cultivate intimacy with HaMeshiach and prepare for eternal rewards. Hebrews 12:1-2 exhorts us, “Let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. Let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Yeshua, the pioneer and perfecter of our faith.” Our labor in faith is eternal, ensuring crowns of glory that adorn us forever.