Touch Not My Anointed

A Response to "Touch Not My Anointed"

The Meaning of the Phrase

The phrase "touch not my anointed" is mentioned several times in the Bible, primarily in the Old Testament. It is usually used in reference to God's chosen leaders or prophets, whom He has anointed for a specific purpose. The meaning of the phrase is that no one should harm or attack these individuals, as they have been chosen and blessed by God. They are set apart for a divine assignment. They carry a special anointing. They are under God's protection.

The First Instance

The first instance of the phrase is found in 1 Chronicles 16:22, where it says, "Do not touch my anointed ones; do my prophets no harm." This verse is often used to remind people that God has chosen certain individuals to lead and speak on His behalf, and that they should be respected and protected. The anointed ones are not just human leaders; they are representatives of God. To touch them is to touch the One who sent them. To harm them is to provoke the One who anointed them.

The Warning in Psalm 105

Another well-known instance of the phrase is found in Psalm 105:15, which says, "Do not touch my anointed ones; do my prophets no harm." This verse is often interpreted as a warning to those who would harm God's chosen leaders, as they will ultimately have to answer to God for their actions. The warning is not just a suggestion; it is a divine decree. God watches over His anointed. He protects His prophets. He defends His servants.

The Context of the Warning

In its proper context, "touch not my anointed" is a warning to those who would harm God's chosen leaders or prophets. The phrase is primarily used to remind people that God has set apart certain individuals for a specific purpose, and that they should be respected and protected. In the Old Testament, God anointed kings and prophets to lead His people, and these individuals were often subjected to attacks and persecution from those who opposed them. The phrase "touch not my anointed" was a warning to these people that God was watching over His chosen ones, and that those who sought to harm them would face divine retribution.

Examples of Divine Protection

In the Old Testament, there are examples of people who opposed God's anointed leaders and suffered the consequences. King Saul was punished for disobeying God's instructions and trying to kill David, who had been anointed by Samuel as the next king of Israel. Similarly, in the book of Numbers, Miriam and Aaron were punished for speaking out against Moses, whom God had anointed to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. These examples serve as reminders that opposing God's anointed is not just a human conflict; it is a spiritual battle. It is a fight against God's purposes.

The Proper Application

However, it is important to note that this phrase should not be used to shield religious leaders from criticism or to justify abusive behavior. Instead, it should be understood as a reminder that those who have been anointed by God should be respected and supported in their work, and that any disagreements or criticisms should be approached with humility and grace. The anointing does not make a person infallible. It does not give them a license to sin. It does not exempt them from accountability. But it does call for respect, honor, and prayer.

The Call to Support and Respect

Overall, the phrase "touch not my anointed" is a reminder that those whom God has anointed for a specific purpose should be respected and protected, as they are doing God's work and speaking His truth. We are called to support them, pray for them, and honor their God-given role. We are not to attack them, slander them, or undermine their authority. At the same time, we are to hold them accountable in love and to approach any disagreements with humility and grace.

Final Reflection

"Touch not my anointed" is a divine warning and a call to honor. It reminds us that God's servants are under His protection. It challenges us to respect and support those He has chosen. But it also calls us to approach leadership with discernment and love. Let us honor God's anointed. Let us pray for them. Let us support them. And let us trust God to protect and guide them as they fulfill their calling.

Prayer for God's Anointed

Lord, I pray for Your anointed ones. Protect them, guide them, and strengthen them. Help them to fulfill the purpose You have set before them. Give me the wisdom to honor and support them. Help me not to criticize or attack them but to approach any disagreements with humility and grace. I trust that You are watching over them and that You will defend them. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.