The trying of our faith is difficult and uncomfortable. The exemplars of our faith used the trials in the days of of light (or plenty) to build their confidence in YHVH and their relationship to him. There is a striving to gain the skills needed to enter the narrow path. We call it exercise in the physical realm. It is also true in the spiritual realm. The small experiences build our confidence in the love and care of our Father; so when the dark times come we are not afraid. We remember. We hope. We endure.

"My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing." James 1

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103: The Parable Of The Ten Virgins

Matthew 25:1-13

JESUS TOLD another parable, saying:

            “Then shall the kingdom of Heaven be likened unto ten virgins, which took their lamps, and went forth to meet the bridegroom. And five of them were wise, and five were foolish. They that were foolish took their lamps, and took no oil with them; but the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps.

While the bridegroom tarried, they all slumbered and slept. And at midnight there was a cry made, ‘Behold, the bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him.’

Then all those virgins arose, and trimmed their lamps. And the foolish said unto the wise, ‘Give us of your oil, for our lamps are gone out.’ But the wise answered, saying, ‘Not so, lest there be not enough for us and you; but go ye rather to them that sell, and buy for yourselves.’ And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came; and they that were ready went in with him to marriage, and the door was shut. Afterward came also the other virgins, saying, ‘Lord, Lord, open to us.’ But he answered and said, ‘Verily I say unto you, “I know you not.”’

Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh.”