In Matthew 25, Jesus tells the parable of the virgins who await the bridegroom. The foolish virgins had no oil and asked at the very last moment to borrow some from those who had prepared in advance for the coming of the Lord. The foolish were shut out and the Lord declared that he did not know them.

Let us prepare our lamp this year with the oil of the gospel of Jesus Christ, building our testimony and spiritual strength in preparation for whatever may come. While we can be inspired by others who are wise, their wisdom cannot be transferred to us unless we do the work to become wise, to learn of Christ and fill our own vessels with the oil of truth and faith.

"Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh." (Matthew 25:13 KJV)

We do not ever know when we will find ourselves in need of the strength we might gain by being wise and preparing now. That strength will assure that no matter what comes, the Lord will be with us as we go through the coming trials of life. Let us go forth into 2019 and prepare well.