The parable of the ten virgins has always intrigued me because of its straightforward and blunt approach (Matthew 25:1–13).

The bridegroom was not interested in those who were unprepared. Instead, his preference was for those who planned ahead and took responsibility for their needs. But this raises a difficult question: how could he act this way? Shouldn’t he be merciful and kind to those who are weak, needy, or less privileged?

Yet this was not the point of the parable. Jesus was not dismissing compassion; rather, He was emphasizing responsibility. The message is that citizens of God’s kingdom are to be people of diligence, preparation, and disciplined effort. They are not to be those who habitually rely on others for a handout.

God desires His people to be prudent, focused, strong, and even materially equipped—while remaining fully dependent on Him for their entire being. It is from this position of strength and dependence on God that they are able to be truly generous toward the vulnerable, the weak, the forgotten, and the downtrodden.

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