Give Me Oil in My Lamp · Hymns · Scripture Trove

Explore “Give Me Oil in My Lamp”: song information and official sources.

Confession and repentance · Following and obedience

About this hymn

Using the image of a lamp continuing to burn, this short song asks that we may remain faithful while waiting for the Lord and expresses our worship of him with joyful acclamation. The parable of the ten virgins in Matthew emphasises preparation and watchfulness; Luke also teaches disciples to be like people waiting for their master to return. As we sing, we can understand watchfulness as living conscientiously today: continuing in prayer, putting love for others into practice, fulfilling entrusted responsibilities and asking the Lord for help when weak. The image of lamp and oil reminds us that we cannot rely only on temporary enthusiasm; nor do we need to assign every detail a fixed spiritual symbol. Waiting wholeheartedly for the Lord is the direction of this prayer.

When to use this hymn

Children’s and youth gatherings, camps, worship on watching and waiting, and daily prayer.

Related Scripture

Official sources

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