VOICE OF TRUTH FOR TODAY
Awaiting the Bridegroom’s Arrival
“Give me oil in my lamp, keep me burning.”
Many of us recognize these words from a familiar hymn sung long ago, perhaps without fully realizing what we were asking. Jesus gives us deeper understanding through the parable of the ten virgins in Matthew 25. Five were wise and brought extra oil for their lamps. Five were foolish and did not. When the bridegroom finally arrived, only those whose lamps were still burning entered the wedding feast.
Jesus reminds us that oil—often symbolic of the Holy Spirit—cannot be borrowed. We cannot rely on the faith, anointing, or intimacy of others. Each of us must personally commune with Him. “Here is the bridegroom! Come out to meet him” (Matthew 25:6, ESV). Yet some missed Him—not because they never had oil, but because they failed to keep their lamps filled.
Intimacy with Christ cannot be purchased or sustained on yesterday’s devotion. Our lamps must be continually filled. When our pursuit grows indifferent and our passion cools, the flame of first love can fade. Jesus does not merely want us at the wedding feast—He wants to know us. He desires relationship, not religion.
If your light feels dim or your oil is running low, know this: there is a storehouse of His presence waiting for you. He remains faithful even when we are faithless. His love is jealous for you, and His Spirit gently draws you closer.
Christ tore the veil so we could meet with Him. If your heart longs for Him, that longing itself is evidence of His Spirit at work within you.
Lord Jesus, give us oil in our lamps. Keep us burning—and ready for Your coming.
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Excerpt from Voice of Truth Magazine
“Rekindle: Keeping First Love Alive” by Lindsey Sullivan