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Ready All the Time
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2/25/2010
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"Then the kingdom of heaven will be comparable to ten virgins, who took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom. Five of them were foolish, and five were prudent...Be on the alert then, for you do not know the day nor the hour." - Matthew 25:1-13 NASB
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Ten women had an equal opportunity to be ready for the coming of the bridegroom. In fact, all ten thought they were ready. But then there was a delay. Five of them were prudent and had brought enough oil for their lamps. They were ready for the bridegroom to come at any time. But five were foolish and brought no oil.
They all fell asleep. Suddenly, there was a shout, and they were called to come out and meet the bridegroom. The wise women were ready, but the foolish ones had to find more oil and purchase what they needed. Sadly, when the foolish arrived at the wedding feast, the door already had been shut. Because of their failure to be prepared, the foolish bridesmaids missed out on the "feast" to which they'd been invited.
Jesus told this parable to help us look at our own lives and think about the choices we make with the resources we've been given. He wanted us to consider if we're ready for the challenges of life and for His return. He warned that we must "be on the alert," since none of us knows "the day nor the hour." It's critical that we be like the sons of Issachar, understanding the times and knowing how to be prepared (1 Chronicles 12:32).
Don't be foolish, but make sure you are like the wise bridesmaids--having extra oil in your spiritual lamp. This happens as you spend time each day in God's Presence...as you read and obey His Word...and as you ask Him to continually fill you with His Holy Spirit.
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| Prayer |
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Father, help me to see if I'm ready for Jesus' return. I dedicate my time, talent, and treasure to You. Help me to focus on completing the assignment You've given me. In Jesus name. Amen.
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| Extended Reading
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Matthew 25
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