A lamp without oil may shine for a moment, but it cannot endure delay. So it is with a religion that rests only in outward profession. Words may be orthodox, duties may be performed, and hopes may be confidently spoken, but if there is no inward work of the Spirit, no hidden supply of grace within, the light will fail when it is most needed.
The wise virgins were not distinguished by a louder profession, but by a secret provision. They had oil in their vessels. Their faith was fed from within. It was sustained not by appearance, but by principle, by the Spirit’s gracious work in the heart.
--Thomas Manton