What practical steps can we take to ensure our spiritual "lamps" remain lit? Setting the Scene “ ‘But the wise ones took oil in flasks along with their lamps.’ ” (Matthew 25:4). Jesus’ parable of the ten virgins highlights one crucial point: it is possible to start with a burning lamp yet let it flicker out. The Lord’s call is to stay ready until He comes, lamp still glowing. Why Lamps Go Out • Neglect of the Word (Matthew 4:4) • Prayerlessness (Luke 18:1) • Isolation from fellowship (Hebrews 10:25) • Tolerated sin that grieves the Spirit (Ephesians 4:30) • Distraction with the world’s cares (Mark 4:19) Practical Steps to Keep the Flame Bright 1. Stay stocked with “oil” every day • Read and meditate on Scripture; the Word is “a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105). • Journal key truths to carry through the day. 2. Guard unhurried time in prayer • Begin and end each day speaking with the Lord (Psalm 5:3; 1 Thessalonians 5:17). • Include praise, confession, thanksgiving, and specific requests for filling of the Spirit (Ephesians 5:18). 3. Keep short accounts with God • Immediately confess known sin (1 John 1:9). • Repentance removes the soot that dims the flame (Revelation 3:2–3). 4. Walk in obedient faith • Do what the Word says (James 1:22). • Each act of obedience is like trimming the wick—flame burns cleaner, brighter. 5. Cultivate Spirit-filled fellowship • Regular worship and Bible study with other believers (Acts 2:42). • Mutual encouragement fans the embers when one grows weak (Hebrews 3:13). 6. Live alert to Christ’s return • “Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour” (Matthew 25:13). • Set reminders—phone alarms, calendar notes—with verses about His coming (1 Peter 1:13). 7. Serve and testify • Pour out what God pours in; service keeps the oil flowing (2 Corinthians 9:8). • Share the gospel; witnessing keeps zeal fresh (Romans 1:16). Promises for Those Who Stay Alight • Continuous guidance: “The path of the righteous is like the first gleam of dawn, shining ever brighter till midday” (Proverbs 4:18). • Overflowing joy: “In Your presence is fullness of joy” (Psalm 16:11). • Eternal reward: “Well done, good and faithful servant… Enter into the joy of your master” (Matthew 25:23). Keep adding oil, trimming the wick, and watching the horizon. The Bridegroom is nearer than ever, and a lit lamp is the mark of a ready heart. |
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