Mended Monday: Keep the Fire Burning

Have you ever lit a candle, watched it flicker, and felt its warmth fill the room? A candle was created to burn, to shine, and to give light—just like we were designed to burn with passion for God. But a fire doesn’t stay lit by accident. It must be tended, fed, and protected.

In Matthew 25:1-13, Jesus tells the parable of the ten virgins, a story about waiting, preparation, and devotion. Five of them were wise, bringing extra oil to keep their lamps burning. The other five were foolish, unprepared when their oil ran out. When the bridegroom finally arrived, only those who were ready entered the wedding feast, while the unprepared were left outside.

This story is a powerful reminder that spiritual fire is not a one-time spark—it’s a flame we must keep alive.

Four Ways to Keep Your Fire Burning:

1.  Oil Represents Intimacy with God – It Can’t Be Borrowed

You can be inspired by someone else’s faith, but you can’t live off their relationship with God. True intimacy with Him is personal and cultivated daily. (Psalm 27:8)

2.  Passion Without Preparation Will Burn Out

Emotion alone won’t sustain you. A lasting fire comes from consistent time in God’s presence, prayer, and His Word. (2 Timothy 1:6)

3.  Delayed Doesn’t Mean Denied – Stay Ready

Just because God seems quiet doesn’t mean He isn’t moving. The wise stay faithful, even in waiting. (Galatians 6:9)

4.  The Door Closed – A Warning to Keep the Fire Alive

Lukewarm faith has consequences. Don’t wait for someday to get serious about your walk with God—live ready now. (Revelation 3:16)

So, What About You?

Take a moment to reflect:

🔥 Is your spiritual fire burning, dim, or running out?

🔥 What distractions are pulling you away from intimacy with God?

🔥 What’s one practical step you can take this week to stay spiritually prepared?

A candle without a flame serves no purpose—it was created to burn. And so were you.

Let’s commit to keeping the fire alive.