HOW READY ARE YOU?

Introduction

In a compelling sermon by Dave Thomas, the parable of the ten virgins is explored in the context of being prepared for the arrival of God and the work of God in our lives. The parable tells the story of ten virgins who took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom. Five of them were wise and brought oil for their lamps, while the other five were foolish and did not bring any oil. When the bridegroom arrived, the five wise virgins went in with him to the wedding banquet, while the foolish virgins were left outside because they were unprepared.

Thomas emphasizes the importance of being spiritually prepared for the return of Jesus and the work of God in our lives. He highlights the need for prioritizing God's kingdom and investing ourselves in what truly matters. He urges listeners to evaluate their actions and priorities to ensure they are aligned with God's will.

The sermon suggests four tension points that individuals should navigate in order to become people of preparation: stewardship vs. control, planning vs. overthinking, reasonableness vs. going all-in, and being present vs. being vacant. Thomas encourages listeners to find balance in these areas and focus on their eternal future.

Throughout the sermon, Thomas emphasizes the importance of being ready for the most important moments in life. He challenges listeners to examine their readiness to meet God and asks them to consider their priorities and actions in light of this readiness.

Keywords: readiness, preparation, priorities, investment, spiritual growth.

FAQ:

1. How should we prioritize God's kingdom in our lives?

• Prioritizing God's kingdom means investing ourselves in the work of God and aligning our actions with His will. It involves seeking His guidance and surrendering our own desires to follow His path.

2. What does it mean to be spiritually prepared?

• Being spiritually prepared means cultivating a relationship with God, seeking His guidance, and aligning our lives with His teachings. It involves regular prayer, studying Scripture, and actively participating in a faith community.

3. How can we balance being present and being vacant in our lives?

• Balancing being present and being vacant involves being attentive and engaged in our daily lives while also having an eye on eternal matters. It requires being fully present in the current moment while also considering the broader spiritual significance of our actions.

4. What does it mean to be all-in for God?

• Being all-in for God means fully committing ourselves to His purposes and priorities. It requires surrendering our own ambitions and desires to follow His will and live in accordance with His teachings.