TOPIC: TRIMMING YOUR LAMPS – PART 1 – EXCERPTS
Excerpts By: Pastor Timothy Pemu on 29th December 2024
If you notice, the trimming of the lamp was done by all the virgins, both wise and foolish, as seen in Matthew 25. However, the wise, their lamps burned brighter; the foolish, theirs went out. Why? They lacked oil, the essential element. Brethren, if the rapture were to happen today, where would you stand? Jesus warned in the same parable that preparation and vigilance are critical, for many may be caught unprepared when the midnight cry sounds. The devil has set traps to weaken us, causing spiritual slumber and loss of focus.
The mystery of iniquity, as mentioned in 2 Thessalonians 2:7, is already at work. It enslaves believers, causing them to do what they know is wrong while making it impossible to stop. This power operates through the ‘spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience’ (Ephesians 2:2). It fuels actions like fornication, lying, and spiritual laziness. Jesus foretold in Matthew 24 that because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold. Brethren, as long as this power grips us, our fire for God will diminish. Today, we must arise in spirit, turning from dead works, so we can ascend with Christ when He calls.
Many in the church have lost focus, chasing personal ambitions while neglecting kingdom assignments. As Jesus illustrated in the parable of the talents in Matthew 25, each of us is accountable for the gifts and purposes God has entrusted to us. When we stand before the judgment seat of Christ, He will ask, ‘Where are the talents I gave you?’ Brethren, let us return to our first love, seeking first the kingdom of God and His righteousness. Therein lies our true purpose and joy.
Ephesians 5:16 reminds us to redeem the time, for the days are evil. Each day, wickedness grows – pornography, deceit, and blood rituals are more accessible than ever. Even children, with just a smartphone, can access what once seemed distant. In such perilous times, what should the believer do? It is lamp-trimming time! Just as the wick of a lantern must be adjusted to burn brighter, so must our spiritual lives be purified and our lights raised. Let us cut away the distractions and let our light shine boldly in this dark world.
My joy is not in material wealth or prestige. As Paul said in 1 Thessalonians 2:19, ‘What is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Are not even ye in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at His coming?’ My joy is seeing a sinner repent, a wicked heart turn to righteousness, or a soul cry out to God in godly sorrow. That is my private jet, my crown, my ultimate fulfillment in ministry. Brethren, this is what we are called to – a ministry focused not on earthly gain but on eternal transformation.
