Extra Oil!

“Those who were foolish took their lamps and took no oil with them, but the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps.” Matthew 25:3-4

The parable of the Ten Virgins and the bridegroom finds its settings during the week leading up to Jesus Christ’s death on the cross. During those days, weddings in the ancient east were almost always late in the evening and involved ten maidens. The bridegroom would visit the bride’s house to escort her with pomp and gladness of heart either to his own or somewhere else for feasting.

The ten virgins would have their lamps burning in expectant of the wedding party at some point along the way, and then, they would join the processions to the feast. Five foolish virgins did not take with them extra oil that could sustain them throughout their waiting time, and they were rejected and dismissed for such a shameful act. There is an opportunity here to see how life can change when we are prepared or not.

In Mark 4:11, Jesus said, “The mystery of the kingdom of God has been given to you, but to those on the outside, everything is expressed in parables.”

Likewise, some people who had such an opportunity go around doing the same thing even when the bible said, “Live wisely among those who are not believers, and make the most of every opportunity.” Colossians 4:5. This is what I believe to be true, it is possible to be ready for the unexpected, but if you don’t prepare well enough, there can be much disappointment. I pray that you will not experience disappointment at the edge of a breakthrough in Jesus’ name.

We should prepare for the unexpected and never waste our time on things that don’t serve us. We should “Make the best use of time because the days are evil (Ephesians 5:16).” Life without extra oil will always be like a desert. We cannot continue to live without proper plans and preparation, or else we might end up missing out on a great opportunity. Matthew 24:44 says, “Therefore you also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.”

Prayer:
1. Thank you, Jesus, for your presence in my life.
2. I am thankful for all the blessings you have given my family and me.
3. Holy Spirit helps me manage my time wisely to accomplish what God has called me to do in Jesus’ name. Amen!