What are the benefits of being prepared?

Genesis 41:47-49As predicted, for seven years the land produced bumper crops. During those years, Joseph gathered all the crops grown in Egypt and stored the grain from the surrounding fields in the cities. He piled up huge amounts of grain like sand on the seashore. Finally, he stopped keeping records because there was too much to measure.

Joseph listened to and followed God and, as a result, God showed Joseph how to prepare to save Egypt. God showed Joseph how to prepare for the famine during times of plenty. When you seek God’s wisdom, you prepare your heart for future trials by gleaning from your current blessings. Whether that means putting a little extra into the savings account today or spending a little extra time studying God’s Word, your preparation will carry you through life’s more difficult times.

Philippians 4:11-13Not that I was ever in need, for I have learned how to be content with whatever I have. I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little. For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.

1 Timothy 4:8-10“Physical training is good, but training for godliness is much better, promising benefits in this life and in the life to come.” This is a trustworthy saying, and everyone should accept it. This is why we work hard and continue to struggle, for our hope is in the living God, who is the Savior of all people and particularly of all believers.

Preparation involves both learning and practicing. Both Paul and Timothy discovered they were in a lifelong training program for godliness. This meant progress rather than perfection. Life will involve a wide variety of experiences and challenges. All of them can be handled through Christ, who is willing and able to give us the strength we need.