What is our oil? By Sali Butler

It is something that claims all of your time and attention yet brings you no satisfaction. Our oil may be hidden in the wrappings of a successful profession or a marriage that appears picture perfect. Other than Christ, you are the only one who knows what your oil is and what it cost you to obtain it. But once you make that decision to pour it out, the fragrance of your oil will fill the world around you. Are you ready to be exposed?

This statement simply means that we often give more time and attention to obtaining earthly goals such as careers or relationships or possessions only to find ourselves empty because we did not seek the kingdom of heaven and its righteousness. So within the context of a great marriage, a successful career or owning the house on the hill, we failed to cultivate the deep intimate relationship with our Lord and Savior. Once we realize that nothing can take the place of Jesus Christ in our heart, mind and soul, these earthly things can be enjoyed in the context of our relationship with Him. The value of our relationship with people, including a spouse should have a richer quality if our relationship with God is in tact because God is Love. However, many people put the earthly relationship before the spiritual relationship and eventually things began to crumble.

my immigrant experience has repeatedly brought me to a place of decision making about this very issue time and again. The worst danger in the whole scenario is the tyranny of fear. I am afraid my family will lack good things. I am afraid I will lose the esteem of my family and friends. I am afraid I will not be able to take care of myself when I am older. If I let them, the fears govern my choices regarding prioritizing my intimacy with the Father. I covet His grace earnestly.