Be prepared

If we climbed Mount Everest without being prepared fitness-wise or without any rock climbing gear, we'd be asking for trouble. Climbing is dangerous. Everest is more than a bit steep and treacherous. Without ice axes, harnesses and an oxygen mask, we can imagine the consequences. It's obvious that we need to be prepared to tackle a big climb.

So why do we sometimes not properly prepare ourselves for life's battles? Today's proverb is a not-all-that-complicated nudge to say, 'Be prepared.' What does that actually look like for the 'mountains' of day-to-day life? Here are a couple of rock-solid basics: (1) God's word. Jeremiah said, 'When I discovered your words, I devoured them. They are my joy and my heart's delight' (Jeremiah 15:16 NLT). The word of God in the Bible sustains us. No high-wind can dislodge us from a rock-face if we're well anchored in knowledge that's trustworthy. Holding the word of God in mind gives our life a good grip. (2) Prayer. Let's talk to God. Prayer makes things happen: 'The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective' (James 5:16 NIV).

Having a trust in God through his word will steady us, but talking to him as well turns that trust into a full-blown relationship. Spending time with God is great in itself, but it also happens to be the best life-preparation we can get.



So what now? Think about an area of your life that feels mountainous. Now open your Bible (app) to Psalm 138, and talk through your situation with God.





— SCRIPTURE —

'A prudent person foresees danger and takes precautions.' Proverbs 27:12 NLT
— SOULFOOD —

1 Ki 1-2, Luke 10:38-42, Ps 33:13-22, Pro 5:15-20