“PRESSED”
1.The lamps.
The oil was what kept the lamps burning so that there was continuous light. But, it was not just any oil, it had to be pure oil.
2. The oil.
The problem is that, to obtain pure oil, you need to press or crush the olives.
That makes me think that we sometimes feel crushed and pressed by life, but it also reminds me that those tests produce pure oil in me.
Humiliation purifies me, humiliation makes me feel “pressed and crushed”; but, at the same time, that purifies me and makes me shed more light in my family, in my church, my work, and at school. It makes me a better human being, a better pastor, a better employer, etc.
3. Continually.
Sometimes I say: “Oh Lord, another problem! How long?”.
But, I understand that I am continuously pressed to keep myself purified continuously, and to continually give light.
Think about it:
Have you felt “pressed” at some point?
What has this process produced in you?
Why do you think it’s necessary to continually keep yourself humbled?