How can we be wise like the "five were foolish, five were wise"? Setting the Scene • Matthew 25:2 tells it plainly: “Five of them were foolish, and five were wise.” • All ten are bridesmaids, all have lamps, all expect the Bridegroom. Only half bring extra oil—only half are ready when the long wait turns into a midnight cry (Matthew 25:4-6). • The parable is literal warning: Jesus will return at an hour no one can predict (Matthew 25:13). Wisdom means living every day in light of that certainty. What Made the Wise Virgins Wise? • Prepared hearts—They planned for delay, carrying oil that kept the flame burning. • Faith that acts—Belief translated into foresight and obedience, not complacency. • Perseverance—They stayed alert through the long, dark hours. • Urgency about intimacy—Their priority was meeting the Bridegroom, not merely being seen at the wedding. How We Can Walk in the Same Wisdom Today • Fear the Lord first: “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom” (Proverbs 9:10). • Keep the lamp of testimony burning—stay filled with the Spirit (Ephesians 5:18) and the Word. • Practice watchful obedience: “Be doers of the word, and not hearers only” (James 1:22). • Treasure time: “Pay careful attention… redeeming the time because the days are evil” (Ephesians 5:15-16). • Cultivate longing for His appearing (2 Timothy 4:8); love His return more than the present world. • Remain spiritually awake: “Let us not sleep as the others do, but let us remain awake and sober” (1 Thessalonians 5:6). Practical Steps for Daily Readiness • Word intake—read, memorize, and meditate until Scripture shapes every decision. • Prayerful dependence—talk with the Bridegroom throughout the day; keep short accounts of sin. • Regular fellowship—worship, accountability, and mutual encouragement with other believers. • Spirit-led service—use gifts and resources for Kingdom work; pour oil into other lamps. • Consistent holiness—trim the wick of compromise, guarding eyes, mind, and habits. Promises for the Wise • Entry into the wedding celebration: “Those who were ready went in with him to the wedding banquet, and the door was shut” (Matthew 25:10). • A crown of righteousness “for all who crave His appearing” (2 Timothy 4:8). • Eternal joy at the marriage supper of the Lamb (Revelation 19:7-9). Living in Anticipation Wisdom looks forward. It carries extra oil, keeps the lamp bright, and listens for the midnight shout. When the Bridegroom arrives, the wise are not surprised—they are thrilled, ready, and ushered straight into His joy. |
    |