Get Prepared

Mixed signals from the standard indicators as to the economic health of the country.  When this occurs, the analysts look to
one indicator that is more reliable than all others.  They said, “The truest indicator of the U.S. economy is related to the level of
giving to charities.  Increases in giving mean increases in the nation’s prosperity.”  It is interesting - when the world runs out of
answers; they come back to the reliable, unchangeable truth and wisdom of God.

One of the reasons we all (eventually) come back to the Truth of God, is that no matter what happens to whom, and where,
Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness,
neither shadow of turning. (James 1:17) God is prepared for everything that has happened and does happen.  He has
prepared the universe and everything in it.  He is not surprised, shocked, or stunned by anything that occurs.  As children of
God, we are to be prepared as well.  Preparation is part of our protection, given to us by God.  We are to put on the armor He
has prepared for us.  Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and
having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of
righteousness; And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith
ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is
the word of God: (Ephesians 6:13-17  )

Notice that as we put on His armor, we are to specifically dress our feet with the preparation of the Gospel.  Our walk with the
Lord is prepared by the Good news of Jesus Christ.  We may be momentarily surprised by situations, but we are to be
prepared in the Lord to meet each new situation head on; applying His wisdom and getting victory over them.

Like any athlete or professional who desires success, being prepared means time is spent to study, practice and apply the
skills necessary to win.  Prepare thy work without, and make it fit for thyself in the field; and afterwards build thine house.
(Proverbs 24:27)

For us, as believers desiring victory in life, our preparation means we are to receive Gods’ blessing by faith through grace.  
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly
places in Christ, (Ephesians 1:3)  Then we are to apply three principals of study, practice and application.

Relevant Word study.  Reading chapters of the Bible as a quota will not do.  Whether we read a book or a verse, our study
must be devoted to hearing from God through the Word for our lives today. So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the
word of God. (Romans 10:17)

Fervent prayer.  As we believe we are talking to the Creator, our prayers should be sincere, from our heart and passionate.  
When our hearts are prepared for Him, He speaks to us.  The preparations of the heart in man, and the answer of the tongue,
is from the LORD.
(Proverbs 16:1)

Reverence to God.  After a miracle occurs is not the time to find “the right words” to say “thanks.”  Praise and worship “rocks”
His throne room with power.  It prepares our lives for the same type of power.  Sing forth the honour of his name: make his
praise glorious. Say unto God, How terrible art thou in thy works! through the greatness of thy power shall thine enemies
submit themselves unto thee. All the earth shall worship thee, and shall sing unto thee; they shall sing to thy name. Selah.
(Psalm 66:2-4)

So no matter what you have come through or are going through; get prepared.   Study, practice prayer and apply the skills Be
prepared for persecution, get prepared for His presence and stay prepared for His victory.


In Christ,
Gregory and Linda Emler
God inspired, Word based letters of encouragement
God inspired, Word based letters of encouragement