Shine Brightly
Dr RJ Sing · 1 min read
“You shall command the Israelites to provide you with pure oil of crushed olives for the light, to cause it to burn continually [every night].”
‘Command the Israelites to bring you clear oil…so that the lamps may be kept burning’ (Exodus 27:20) The lamps represent the ‘seven spirits of God’ (Revelation 4:5) that burn continually and eternally before the throne of God. Because the flame of worship is never to cease, an unending supply of oil is necessary.
Jesus warned of seven wise and seven foolish virgins whose primary difference was the presence of ‘oil…with their lamps’ (Matthew 25:4) In this parable, the wise virgins were those whose lives were prepared and who were watching for the heavenly bridegroom. They were also those who were found using their talents wisely when the Master returned.
The point of all three references is readiness. First, the readiness of a life constantly filled with the Holy Spirit, a life burning brightly day and night in worship. Second, a life that is attentive to the Bridegroom’s call, denying the foolish lusts that ‘drain’ your oil.
Finally, a life that is spiritually productive, developing your talents to their fullest potential. Keep your lamps full, trimmed and burning, the Bridegroom will come when you least expect Him, and there will be no time to find the oil you need. He Himself dwells within you.
From the March 2018 issue, themed The Holy Spirit is in Me.
