Fill Your Lamps

A little while ago I was talking with a friend about life in general, especially the current state of affairs in our society. As much as we want things to get better, I’m not sure things will before Jesus returns. While I do not profess to be a Bible scholar, especially as it relates to Biblical prophecy, Scripture does indicate that the last days will be accompanied by adverse events . Of course the exact timing and order of events are not clearly defined. Are we in the last days? If not, we certainly are getting close.

This is not a doom and gloom message, particularly for Christ-followers. It is a call to action. Dr. Richard Blackaby, whom I highly respect, wrote, “Don’t merely dabble in the Holy Spirit. Seek to be filled to the brim so you avail yourself of his awesome power, love, and wisdom.” 

In Matthew 25:1-13 we have the parable of the Ten Bridesmaids.  You might recall that the Bridegroom (Jesus) went to make preparations for his bride (his Church). While the bridesmaids were waiting, they were alerted that the Bridegroom was coming (the return of Jesus). Five of the bridesmaids discovered that they did not have enough oil (the Holy Spirit) in their lamps and sought to borrow from the other five bridesmaids. They responded that they would not have enough oil if they “gave” them any. While the five unprepared bridesmaids went to get oil, the Bridegroom came and they missed it and were left behind.

Many sermons have been preached on this parable. I don’t have the only interpretation or application of this Scripture, but I don’t think I’m far off. There is a message for us today in light of current events. 

As my friend and I were talking, he said, “It’s time to fill our lamps.” Wow! That certainly resonates with me. It’s time for us to follow Dr. Blackaby’s advice. Regardless of the state of current events and the condition of our culture, stop dabbling with spiritual things but our lamps need to be filled to the brim of the Holy Spirit. We cannot ride the coattails of others. We alone our responsable for our own “lamps.” Don’t put it off. Don’t be unprepared for whatever is coming. It’s time to fill our lamps!