Why is the anointing of the Holy Spirit important for Christians?

The anointing of the Holy Spirit is crucial for Christians as it signifies being set apart and empowered by God for His service. In 1 John 2:20, where the author underscores that believers possess an anointing from the Holy One, it is indicative of the abiding presence of the Holy Spirit in their lives, assuring them of their identity and security in Christ. Unlike the temporal anointing Saul received, which was eventually rendered ineffective due to his disobedience, the anointing believers receive is eternal, intertwining their existence with that of Christ. This unction serves as a reminder that true believers cannot be separated from their faith, holding onto the promise of eternal life through Christ, thus marking them as a distinct people under God's covenant.