The Mystery of Times and SeasonSample

Wise vs Foolish – The Stewardship Of Time

Time, while equal in distribution, is not equal in impact. Everyone receives the same 24 hours a day, but how we use them defines whether we are living wisely or foolishly. In Matthew 25, Jesus tells the parable of the ten virgins to illustrate a profound spiritual truth: being aware of time is not enough—you must be prepared for what time is carrying. Five were wise; five were foolish. The difference wasn't in their desire to meet the bridegroom—it was in their preparation.

The wise virgins represent those who steward their Chronos with intentionality so they can meet their Kairos. They kept their lamps full and ready. They understood the weight of what was coming, even if they didn't know when. The foolish virgins had lamps too, but they lacked oil—symbolizing a lack of spiritual discipline, focus, and urgency. They underestimated the demand that the Kairos moment would require.

Wisdom isn’t just about knowledge—it’s about applying the truth you know. The wise virgins didn't wait until the last minute to get ready; they lived in a state of preparation. In contrast, foolishness is living with good intentions but no corresponding actions. The foolish virgins assumed they'd have time later. But Kairos doesn’t wait, it demands that you’re already aligned when it arrives.

The passage warns that when the door was opened, only those who were ready entered in. This is a sobering truth: it is possible to be too late. The door shut behind the wise, and when the foolish returned, it was too late for them. This doesn’t just apply to salvation—it applies to opportunities, relationships, assignments, and destinies. God’s mercy is eternal, but some doors are seasonal.

Being wise with time means setting boundaries. It means evaluating what and who you give your time to. It means choosing growth over gossip, depth over distraction, and substance over surface. The wise understand that how they spend time is a reflection of what they value. The foolish give their time away carelessly, hoping to make up for it later.

Time stewardship is spiritual warfare. The enemy doesn’t always try to destroy your life in obvious ways. Sometimes, he simply keeps you busy with the wrong things. Foolishness looks like overcommitment, procrastination, and numbing your spirit with entertainment. But wisdom looks like discernment—it is intentional, present, and focused on eternity.

Wisdom also values community. The foolish assumed they could borrow oil from the wise. But spiritual preparation can’t be transferred. You can’t borrow someone else’s prayer life, consecration, or relationship with God. Everyone must carry their own oil. The wise carried oil ahead of time because they understood: “I might not get another chance.”

To walk wisely is to live with eternity in view. Every choice, habit, and conversation is an investment. Are you investing in spiritual wealth or squandering moments that can never be regained? The wise redeem the time. They are not just productive; they are purposeful. They understand what time it is—not on the clock, but in the Spirit.

Reflection Questions:

1. Am I living more like the wise or the foolish virgins in this season?
2. What are some “oil” habits (prayer, Word, obedience) I need to strengthen?
3. Are there areas in my life where I am assuming there will be more time?