Believers in Jesus Christ are here for a reason: for “such a time as this.” If you and I could not handle the stresses of these last days, the Lord would have had us born in a different dispensation. Every believer has within them the anointing of the Holy Spirit to bring the love and power of God into every situation in their lives, but we must be ready. The only way we can be ready is by knowing who we (believers) are in Christ and walking in the truth of God’s Word. It is only by learning to listen and obey the voice of the Holy Spirit that we are able – and will be able – to complete God’s plan and purpose for our lives. If we want to have the overflowing blessings of God in our lives, we must learn to be willing and obedient to the call and command of God on our lives. (Isaiah 1:19)

In Matthew 24:4 Jesus answered a question from his disciples about the end times, “Take heed that no man deceives you.” That is still good advice today; for there are many voices in our world today that say they know the best way to do things; the best way to live; and even the best way to worship. However, the ONLY BEST WAY IS ACCORDING TO THE BIBLE! I also want you to notice that Jesus said it was their responsibility to not be deceived! THE BIBLE IS THE ONLY SOURCE OF TRUTH, so it is imperative that a believer know the Bible.

In Matthew 25, Jesus gives a teaching in the Parable of the Ten Virgins; five were wise and five were foolish. While waiting for the bridegroom to come, the five wise had taken extra oil for their lamps but the five foolish had not. After some delay, the bridegroom came and the five foolish were not ready because their lamps were going out, but the five wise had oil for their lamps and were admitted into the wedding. The Bible tells us that while the five foolish had gone to purchase oil, the door was shut, and they could not enter in.  In fact, the Lord said, “I know you not.”  (Verses 10-12)

When we think of how the truth in this parable can be applied to our lives, we can easily see that for the Light of Jesus to continue to burn brightly in our lives, we must stay filled with the oil, the anointing, of the Holy Spirit. It is up to each of us to keep ourselves ready; no one else will be held accountable for our “lamp.” Everyone is responsible for their own walk with the Lord. We cannot walk it for another person. Romans 14:12 tells us clearly that, “each of us will give an account of ourselves to God.”

This message is to be an encouragement to us to keep our attention on the Word of God. (Proverbs 4:20) We are warned in Hebrews 2:1 to pay close attention to the Word so that we do not drift away. Do not let the distractions of everyday responsibilities, or the opinions of others, to pull you away from time in the presence of God. It is in His presence that we are filled with His strength, love, power, and wisdom to live victorious every day.