by Joseph | Feb 25, 2026 | Preparation, Sharing
I believe we live in turbulent times and the difficulties often cause great anxiety and chaos in families. I also discern that things will likely get more difficult in the days and months ahead. We must prepare.
I’ve often shared that the “Call to Preparation” is far more than just food storage and learning new skills. It is about being anchored in your Faith, and letting God teach and lead you to overcome fears, difficulties, and discomforts – without completely falling apart (emotionally) under the strains. For many people, it is a major challenge and an obstacle that has been easily hidden from view – in a relatively calm existence. I often think that many of us would rather hide our fears under a rug, than go through the agony of facing (and dealing) with personal discomforts and failures.
The “discipline” of Preparation requires that we deal with tough things in order to handle tough days ahead. The work of Preparation then, is not simply a stroll in the park. In my journey, to be prepared means to accept the task of being vulnerable” in order to get rid of excess baggage that may hold me down during difficult times. That means being open and willing to purge emotional baggage (and resentments) that will likely serve no good purpose in any future difficulty.
One of those difficulties for many people is dealing with past pains from childhood, or specifically – hurts from parents. I don’t wish to sound cold or uncaring with emotional difficulties from a family of abuse, but I do wish to make a point. For the sake of those you love… It is time to “get a grip” and move yourself to the present.
It absolutely amazes me the number of people who continually find a way to blame their problems or difficult circumstances on their parents. Anytime trouble strikes, they are likely to complain “It’s all my parents’ fault! They are the ones who made me this way.” It sounds a lot like the ridiculous old saying I used to hear a lot… “The devil made me do it.”
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by Joseph | Feb 25, 2026 | Preparation, Sharing
I am convinced that there is going to be an increasing intensity of difficulties that we must face. As times get more difficult and events become more intense, it is increasingly important that we prepare ourselves mentally, emotionally, spiritually, and physically.
In the last several years of my life, it seems that I have been (and continue to be) led through a “purging process”. This process has been painful, especially as I tried to hold onto many things that I had accumulated along the journey. Now I realize, the purging is helping to lighten the load I am carrying so that I can better maneuver during the times ahead.
One of the areas that has been impressed upon me to purge, is the emotional baggage that has often been a weighty distraction. Hurts from broken or failed relationships, insecurities, and guilt from personal failures have all been obstacles to my movement forward. I have spent far too much time struggling under heavy emotional burdens that are completely unnecessary and are hindering me from being tightly focused on preparation for the path ahead.
Preparation is not as easy as I once imagined. Certainly, it can be easy to put a few things in storage and to learn some new skills, but the more difficult part of the journey is the process of transitioning. Habits that have been accumulated and comforts that have become a part of life – are now being altered. It is a necessity, because the journey ahead will not allow for the status quo.
Some of the greatest challenges that I am facing in my preparation call, occurs because my family circumstances are changing and we are forced to deal with discomforts. It has been difficult, but also quite enlightening as I realize the training is a valuable part of the preparation process. I welcome the training now, so that we can be firm when things around us may be wavering.
Tragically, too often family relationships are altered or broken simply because individuals could not handle transitions that emerged suddenly. For example, a lost income may force multiple changes in a lifestyle which may result in friction, anger, and blame – that ultimately impacts a relationship. If the relationship has been built on certain comforts or perhaps expectations, a sudden change in circumstances may unfortunately bring disharmony. Conversely, relationships that are God-anchored and nurtured on unconditional love can withstand difficult changes.
It is vital in the preparation process that individuals strengthen the foundation of their relationships and begin the process of growth through transitions. If we fail to purge ourselves of some emotional baggage now, when stressful times appear – we will not be adequately prepared to weather the storm. We need to quit looking back, quit feeling entitled to certain comforts, quit expecting others to supply our needs, and begin preparing for the beautiful journey ahead. Ask God to begin preparing you for the times ahead and rest assured… He will prepare you.
But be warned…from my experience, preparation will not look like what you expect.
by Joseph | Feb 25, 2026 | Preparation, Sharing
“Do not fear, for I am with you; Do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, surely I will help you, Surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10
The economic climate is something that influences each and every one of us. In the past several years the economy has been in a downward spiral that has caused numerous people to be worried about the future. Fear is widespread in the marketplace, and many individuals have lost their hope and joy. Those who have placed great trust in the government, capitalism, savings, or even their career, are now struggling to find direction.
Obviously, with the economic difficulties, there are high rates of unemployment, entrepreneurs are closing their businesses, and new company ideas are being placed on the back burner for now. Numerous people are struggling just to get by financially and a lot of families are heavily in debt. Even kids and young adults are struggling with discouragement and have doubts about their future opportunities.
The housing market has tanked, and foreclosures on an all time high. Hard-working individuals are losing their homes and families are struggling just to pay their monthly mortgages. Shelters for the homeless are over-crowded and even the non-profit charities and ministries that try to serve people are running low on money and supplies that they can offer to help.
So with all of that to deal with, now we hear financial experts share concern about inflation. Since our Country has had limited exposure with this type of financial peril, some people may not be completely aware of the difficulties presented by inflation – and especially hyper-inflation.
Now, for this article we will not get deep into simple inflation. Instead, we are talking about a financial shift so massive that we can see prices double in a very short period of time. An impact so strong that price of goods can be drastically altered in a few months, a few weeks, or in some parts of the world less than a day.
Economic studies have typically included the understanding of inflation. What the experts are stating at this point in time is that we are headed down a path that is going to take us into hyperinflation when we certainly want to get into a recession.
Some people accept that throughout history we just have to allow the economic climate to go through these cycles. Occasionally it is good and at other times it isn’t. Nonetheless, there is adequate information and facts now that shows by correctly understanding hyperinflation, what causes it, how to take action, and especially how to recover from it, the US dollar can easily be secured.
As a Nation we are fortunate that there have only been two documented times in history when hyperinflation has occurred in the Country. Yet, many analysts absolutely believe it is on our horizon so we would be wise to prepare and make adjustments to avoid it, or lessen the impact.
All of us out there have been dealing with the tough economic times. These difficult times have been an element for everybody from the top to the bottom of the financial scale. In a time of global economic values and online companies that deal all over the world it is even more significant that the value of the US dollar is maintained.
As you learn more about hyperinflation you can certainly stop feeling like you are at the mercy of the government or society to assist you in getting by. What you will certainly even realize is that numerous individuals blame the government for not being more supportive or helpful to hurting families, however the increased government assistance programs can actually be a catalyst in triggering hyperinflation instead of reducing it.
Gaining a better understanding of the dynamics might help you to diminish panic feelings about what is going on with the economic climate. It can certainly even help you to see why extending more credit, printing more cash, and even diminishing taxes aren’t solutions that can help our economic difficulties.
There are no simple solutions either to slowing inflation or stopping hyperinflation completely. Of course, there are many theories and opinions out there and there are likewise those who believe we can easily master from the mistakes of the past in terms of how the economic base of money in the USA is operating. Unfortunately, with diverse opinion, political gridlock, and global responsibilities, the responses are far from certain.
In future posts, we will continue to discuss preparation strategies and offer tips to help you navigate the difficult times. For now, a simple strategy we offer is to begin developing a long-term food storage program. If the dollar does collapse, you certainly don’t want to be paying $25 for a roll of toilet paper. Get it now, while your dollar has some value.
by Joseph | Feb 25, 2026 | Preparation, Sharing
The Sacred Seven: Understanding the Feasts of the Lord
The number seven holds deep significance in the Bible. This digit repeatedly emerges, echoing through scriptures and suggesting the idea of completion and perfection. For example, the earth was created in six days, and God rested on the seventh, deeming it a day of completion. Furthermore, in the Book of Revelation, the number seven appears frequently – with seven churches, seven seals, seven trumpets, and seven bowl judgments.
Interestingly, there are also seven feasts of the Lord. These feasts, woven intricately into the biblical narrative, serve as powerful reminders of God’s plan and purpose for humanity.
- Feast of Passover: This represents the death of Christ and its origins trace back to when Israelites were in Egypt. They marked their doorposts with lamb’s blood to protect their firstborns from the tenth plague. Jesus was crucified during this time, symbolizing the ultimate sacrifice.
- Feast of Unleavened Bread: Symbolic of the burial of Christ, this feast emphasizes the incorruptibility of Christ. Like unleavened bread, which does not contain yeast and cannot rise, Jesus’s body did not undergo corruption during his time in the tomb.
- Feast of First Fruits: Celebrating the resurrection of Christ, this feast is a testament to the idea that Jesus was the initial fruit of those who have been resurrected.
- Feast of Pentecost: Denoting the ascension of Christ, this feast is celebrated 50 days post Passover. It marks the moment when Jesus ascended to Heaven, but also the arrival of the Holy Spirit on Earth.
- Feast of Trumpets: This feast, replete with the sound of trumpets, may indicate the second coming of Christ and the rapturous moments that will follow.
- Feast of Atonement: Representing Israel’s completion and alignment with God, this feast emphasizes unity and reconciliation.
- Feast of Tabernacles: Symbolizing the kingdom age, it anticipates the time when Christ will set up His kingdom on Earth.
These feasts, rooted in Israel’s traditions, hint towards pivotal Christian teachings and events, painting a cohesive narrative of salvation and redemption. While some scholars and believers look to these feasts in an attempt to predict the exact timing of Christ’s return, most concur that the exact date remains a divine mystery. What’s essential, as Christ taught, is to always be watchful and ready.
The feasts serve as spiritual compasses, guiding believers on a journey of faith. They’re not just historical markers but spiritual milestones that underline God’s unwavering love and commitment to His people. So, while dates and rituals have their importance, the heart of these feasts lies in their message of hope, redemption, and the eternal bond between God and His followers.
by Joseph | Feb 25, 2026 | Preparation, Sharing
Shared By: Jeff Rowland
John’s writing in the book of the Revelation is an amazing look at the revelation of Jesus Christ and gives us a great look at a God encounter. I believe that we desperately need a God encounter each and every day in order to stay focused in our life on the things of the Spirit.
The definition of an encounter is described as; a meeting, particularly a sudden or accidental meeting of two or more persons or bodies. I have watched through the years people who suddenly have a God encounter. I have also seen those who accidentally walked into the presence of the Holy Spirit and were transformed and changed in an amazing way. I believe the church of today needs a fresh encounter with the person of Jesus Christ through the power of the Holy Spirit.
There are four dimensions I want us to consider in this article concerning John’s encounter with Christ recorded in Revelation 1.
1. THE CAUSE OF THE ENCOUNTER. (VS 10)
John says, “I was in the Spirit on the Lords day.” What does it mean to be in the Spirit on the Lords day? I have seen many in the 21 years that I was a pastor come into the church in the spirit. However, some wasn’t in the Holy Spirit, but some other spirit. To be in the Spirit means that you are under the control of the Spirit. This can only happen when you lay down your agenda and perspective of what things are suppose to look like when people are under the control of the Holy Spirit. God does what He does simply because He can and chooses to do so.
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by Joseph | Feb 25, 2026 | Preparation, Sharing
There is no greater entertainment on the planet, than sitting in an airport. I travel quite a bit, so I actually get entertained quite frequently. I love watching people rushing about trying to get to their destinations. It never fails that there is always drama with people missing flights or haveing their flight delayed.
I watch the different ways people handle the stress, and how they interact with people around them – or with the flight crew. I can’t help but form an opinion on what must be happening in their lives by how they handle the difficulty. I’ve actually seen several instances where police have been called to intervene with the unruly and frustrated individual.
As I look at faces I encounter at the airport, I’m reminded of the tremendous hurt that seems to be spreading across the world. The difficulties of a global economy that seems to be in ruin, terrorism, wars and rumors of wars, and of course, natural disasters all over the world. Many of the faces I see are people without hope and are afraid of an uncertain future.
The Bible teaches that the difficulties we see today will increase as the time of our Kings return grows closer. As John the Baptist prepared the way for Jesus, many are now called to be in preparation for His soon return. Everywhere I go I seem to have divine appointements with people who have felt a “Preparation Call”. Many aren’t quite sure what they are to do, but they want to connect with others who are in preparation.
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I believe we live in turbulent times and the difficulties often cause great anxiety and chaos in families. I also discern that things will likely get more difficult in the days and months ahead. We must prepare.
