Bible Reading: Exo 25:6
In a day of electricity, oil for our lamps seems a bit removed. However, there is something to be said by the biblical picture of using oil for the light. Better than candles, the pure olive oil that was used gave a clearer flame, brighter and more effective - or so I am told. It is what God would allow in the temple for the lamp of worship. Oil is symbolic of the Holy Spirit's work in our lives. It reveals much about our relationship to the Lord. May we will allow the symbolism of the illustration to teach us?
Oil is the force that gives the lamp its purpose. So the believer derives his purpose from the presence of the Holy Spirit. Oil must be pure for the best light. So the believer must not allow any impurities into his heart to dim the light of the Holy Spirit shining through and in him. Oil can be found in many places, but only one will do. Oil may be bought, borrowed, or taken from petroleum, nuts, fish; what have you. But only the extra pure, extra virgin olive oil is acceptable to God. So it is that our pretenses, our attempts to earn God's approval through ritual, special deeds of kindness, or service to the church will not do. "For whatsoever is not of faith is sin." - Rom 14:23 Only the pure force of the Holy Spirit will suffice to make our spiritual light shine acceptably to our Lord who made us to be the light of the world.
Oil resides within. The Holy Spirit must dwell within or the light will burn out. He is a never-ending supply. We cannot dip our wicks into the church and burn for long. We need the presence of the Holy Spirit each and every moment during the week. It is He who teaches us how to burn. It is He who opens the hearts of those around us to let in the Holy Light of Divine truth. It is He who empowers us to accomplish what He will, and He who leads us through the trials and temptations of life. We must not let anything else in but Him, and we must be sure to live by His power alone.
May your day be one that shines bright with the flame of the Holy Spirit, boldly declaring the good news of Jesus Christ to all who are around you this day.
Bro. Greg
Hi, Greg. I'm glad that what was on my site was a blessing to you. I'll try to check out your from time to time to.
ReplyDeleteTitus 3:4-8
Mike:.
Pastor Greg,
ReplyDeleteThanks for stopping by. Blogging has been an interesting forum for me. I've written from the magician, evangelist, dad and just random perspectives. I have an athiest that has a link to my page and a "not a religious" person that has linked as well. Since adding the map a few weeks ago, I have been amazed by the influence that I can have from a few simple words. Besides, it is a place to vent!
See you soon.