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Changes Our Empty Lamps into Full Lamps, April 21
The wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps.
Matthew 25:4
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Let every youth consider the parable of the ten virgins. All had lamps,
that is, an outward semblance of religion; but only five of them had the
inward piety. Five of them were wanting in the oil of grace. The Spirit of
life in Christ Jesus, the Holy Spirit, was not abiding in their hearts. Without
the oil of grace, of what use was it to bear about a lamp of profession?
However high may be the profession, however high may be the position
held by a professor of religion, if the oil of grace is wanting, he has nothing
with which to feed his lamp, and it cannot send forth clear, shining rays of
light....
The reason why the Bridegroom delays is because He is longsuffering
to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come
to repentance. O the precious longsuffering of our merciful Saviour! O
that each of the dear youth would appreciate the value of the soul that has
been purchased at infinite cost on Calvary! O that each one would place a
proper estimate upon the capabilities that have been given him of God!
Through Christ you may climb the ladder of progress, and bring every
power under the control of Jesus.... In spirit, in thought, in word, and in
action, you may make manifest that you are moved by the Spirit of Christ,
and your life may wield a power of influence over others.
We are living in altogether too solemn a period of the world’s history
to be careless and negligent.... You must pray, believe, and obey. In your
own strength you can do nothing; but in the grace of Jesus Christ, you
can employ your powers in such a way as to bring the greatest good to
your own soul, and the greatest blessing to the souls of others. Lay hold
of Jesus, and you will diligently work the works of Christ, and will finally
receive the eternal reward
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The Youth’s Instructor, September 20, 1894
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