How does this verse encourage us to seek wisdom and readiness daily? Setting the Scene Matthew 25:8 reports: “The foolish ones said to the wise, ‘Give us some of your oil; our lamps are going out.’” Jesus is midway through the parable of the ten virgins. Five were prepared, five were not. The cry announcing the bridegroom exposed who had kept their lamps supplied and who had allowed their light to fade. Why Wisdom Matters Daily • Scripture never treats wisdom as optional. Proverbs 4:7 reminds, “Wisdom is supreme; so acquire wisdom.” • James 1:5 urges us to ask God continually for wisdom. The foolish bridesmaids highlight the danger of postponing that request. • Their plea, “Give us some of your oil,” shows that last-minute borrowing cannot replace long-cultivated discernment. Readiness Can’t Be Borrowed • Salvation is personal; no one else’s faith can stand in for ours (Ezekiel 18:20). • Growth in Christ is cumulative. Today’s decisions shape tomorrow’s readiness (Galatians 6:7-8). • The parable presses us to establish our own reserves of truth and obedience before crises hit. Gathering Our Oil Today 1. Start each morning with the Word—fresh oil for a fresh day (Psalm 119:105). 2. Keep short accounts with God; quick obedience seals the cracks that drain our supply (John 14:21). 3. Practice watchful prayer; alert hearts notice the bridegroom’s approach (Colossians 4:2). Fueling Wisdom with the Word • The Spirit uses Scripture to keep our lamps bright (2 Timothy 3:16-17). • Regular memorization stores “oil” in the mind, ready for dark moments (Psalm 119:11). • Applying truth—rather than merely hearing it—prevents foolish self-deception (Matthew 7:24-27). Companions in Readiness • Fellowship with the wise sharpens vigilance (Proverbs 13:20). • Church gatherings refuel us through teaching, encouragement, and correction (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Serving others channels oil into action, preventing stagnation (1 Peter 4:10-11). Living Alert in the Ordinary Ephesians 5:15-16 counsels, “Be very careful, then, how you live… making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.” • Ordinary routines become training grounds for extraordinary readiness. • Small, faithful choices guard us from the panic we hear in Matthew 25:8: “Our lamps are going out.” • Daily seeking of wisdom keeps the light steady until the Bridegroom’s sudden arrival (1 Thessalonians 5:4-6). The verse’s warning and invitation are clear: keep gathering oil—keep pursuing wisdom—so that, whenever Christ calls, our lamps blaze with steady, welcoming light. |
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