**Matthew 25:8** — *"The foolish ones said to the wise, 'Give us some of your oil; our lamps are going out.'"*

There is a desperation in this request that should arrest us. These five women did not drift into darkness — they ran toward it unprepared, then turned to borrow what cannot be borrowed.

Oil, in this parable, is not transferable. No amount of covenant community, godly friendship, or faithful mentors can substitute for the personal, cultivated readiness that comes from abiding with Christ day after day.

Proverbs 4:23 counsels us to *"guard your heart above all else, for it is the wellspring of life."* The wise bridesmaids guarded theirs. The foolish presumed on others' supply.

This is not a parable about generosity withheld — it is a parable about stewardship deferred.

Let us reflect on what we are tending while the Bridegroom still tarries.