Wade E Taylor
“Then shall the kingdom of heaven be likened to ten virgins, which took their lamps, and went forth to meet the bridegroom. And five of them were wise, and five were foolish.” Matthew 25:1-2
When considering this passage of Scripture, we may attempt to identify those who are foolish, rather than looking at ourselves. The only way we can point a finger at someone is to point three fingers at ourselves. If we will apply this verse to ourselves, it can be said that each one of us is half-wise and half-foolish.
Thus, we cast the deciding vote as to where we will be found in “that day” – either among those who are wise, or among the foolish.
“While the bridegroom tarried, they all slumbered and slept. And at midnight there was a cry made, Behold, the bridegroom comes; go you out to meet Him. Then all those virgins arose, and trimmed their lamps. And the foolish said to the wise, Give us of your oil; for our lamps are gone out. But the wise answered, saying, Not so; lest there be not enough for us and you: but go you rather to them that sell, and buy for yourselves. And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came; and they that were ready went in with him to the marriage: and the door was shut.” Matthew 25:5-10
The desire and intention of the Lord is that we will be found among the wise; thus, the exhortation that those who are wise should take “oil” with them (renew their strength). This oil results from an active on-going devotional life, by which we receive from the Lord a supply of His grace.