There was no shedding of blood involved in the grain offering, for it focused on the life and character of our Lord Jesus Christ rather than on His death. In Him was perfect balance; nothing was ever in excess. His life on earth pleased God (Matt. 17:5). As we become more like Him, we shall become more and more balanced in character.
The oil symbolizes the Holy Spirit who has anointed each believer (2 Cor. 1:21–22). The oil mixed with the offering (v. 4) reminds us that our Lord was born of the Spirit with a perfect nature (Luke 1:35). The oil poured on the offering (v. 6) speaks of the power of the Spirit given to the Savior (Acts 10:38). We need the fruit of the Spirit (Gal. 5:22–23) and the power of the Spirit (Acts 1:8) if we are to please God in character and service.
Note that God never wants leaven (a picture of sin [1 Cor. 5:6–8]) or honey (man’s glory and not God’s [Prov. 25:27]). But He does want salt, which speaks of purity (Col. 4:6), and frankincense, which is praise to God. What a privilege it is to build a Christian life that brings glory to God!
