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.

A careful study of the history of real revival reveals that it isn’t about getting every line of doctrine correct though doctrine is very important.  Revival isn’t about getting everyone clean enough, though walking clean before God is very important.  Revival seems to be about people getting desperate enough to lay down every agenda they have and simply allowing God free reign in their life at that very moment.  Let’s evaluate how the cause of John’s encounter.

• His sensitivity to the Spirit- We can only develop a sensitivity to the Spirit by allowing Him to control us.  This comes through the Word and prayer.

• His sensitivity to the voice of the Spirit- John says he heard a great voice as of a trumpet.  Developing sensitivity to the voice of the Holy Spirit must begin with the willingness to stop talking long enough to hear Him speak.

We cannot ignore that it was the preeminence of God that brought John to the Isle of Patmos to begin with.  John would have never chosen this for himself.  Many times we need the hand of God to put us in place to receive the touch and power of God.
2.     THE PERSON OF THE ENCOUNTER (VS 11-16)
In reading these verses we cannot draw but one conclusion, and that is that John was hearing and seeing the Lord Jesus Christ himself.  A God encounter brings attention to no one but Christ.  It isn’t brought about by a preacher.  Normally revival is attended by the most unlikely of preachers.  It isn’t brought about by anything other than the will of God and the waiting of the people.  The upper room was filled with people who were simply waiting on the promise of God.  It is a hungry for Christ and Christ alone that brings about a fresh encounter.  Notice what is learned from verse 11.

• Christ declares who is doing the speaking- “I am the alpha and Omega, the first and the last.”  Only one can fit this description.  In this description many things are implied.  He is the A to Z and everything in between.  The all sufficient one is implied.  The originator and the finisher of all things.

• Christ declares what John must do- Write down what you see. This thought implies that we should capture and preserve the things we receive from the Lord.  We often have a tendency to devalue the things that the Lord gives to us.  Obedience will always follow an encounter with God.

• Christ reveals himself to John-  Anytime there is a God encounter the revelation of Christ to His people captivates their attention and their heart.

It is the person of Christ that we need an encounter with.  We have had preaching, singing, teaching but what we need is the person of Christ to be manifest in our lives and among the body.
3. THE EFFECT OF THE ENCOUNTER. (VS 17)
“And when I saw Him, I fell at His feet as dead.”  There was a physical manifestation as a result of the encounter.  This is what most people find distasteful.  Just because there are physical manifestations does not mean that people are really encountering God, neither does a God encounter always include a physical manifestation.  We read about things like this and somehow it is alright.  But when we see these things happen before us we then have a tendency to pull back.
I’m reminded of what Jonathon Edwards wrote in his diary.  He said, “God send us a revival without any flesh.”  What a noble thought this is.  All wants a move of God without any obstructions or mess to have to deal with.  However, time went by and nothing seemed to happen.  A later entry in his diary said, “God send us a revival flesh and all.”  Jonathon Edwards realized that revival comes upon fleshly people who are going to respond at times in flesh.
4. THE PURPOSE OF THE ENCOUNTER (VS 17)
The removal of fear was what God did for John in this encounter.  This I believe is what enabled John to write with boldness the way He did.  We have the book of Revelation today because of an encounter John had with Christ.
Conclusion:  God has a purpose in reviving His people.  God has a purpose in you having a real encounter with Him.  There are things deep within your spirit that needs to be pulled out of you for the body of Christ.  Without an encounter with Him we may never realize our calling and what God wants to release to the world that is in you and you alone.

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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. 

In my experience, the greatest need for preparation involves the family.  As I always see people rushing about and watch their interaction with their family members – I’m so reminded of the need to draw closer to family.  Many families do not even communicate, as they are too busy texting or talking on cell phones.  How can we prepare for difficulties ahead, if we don’t prepare our families by building a stronger relationship?

Don’t know what to do to start preparing?  Begin by strengthen your relationship with your spouse and children.

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My preparation journey has been a transition from a 1.3 million dollar mansion in California, to a much more remote area in a very small home that is on land that has been in my family for several generations.  I have shifted from a lifestyle of riding in limos and eating at fancy restaurants, to enjoying a peaceful morning harmony of chirping birds, wind whispering through the trees, and farm animals cheerfully welcoming the sunrise.  The stream on the property keeps this morning orchestra in perfect cadence as the restful water tumbles over the smooth rocks – flowing gently toward the river below.

Yesterday, I had the opportunity to visit a local shop owner in our town.  He had been a merchant for many years, and was lamenting about the fall of his business.  He had been extremely successful, but the last three years had been brutal for him – and he was bitter.

The business this merchant had successfully built over the years was beginning to reflect “the shift” in what people value as a treasure.  His wares were once considered a collectible investment that brought comfort and pleasure to the possessor.  Now, as people are impacted with a changing environment – his trinkets are becoming worthless.

I believe a similar “transition of treasure” will be required of most people during the preparation process.  For some, it will be a difficult transition simply because their heart remains with treasures that have defined our comforts.  In my journey, the Lord began to shift what I have valued as a “treasure”.   I firmly believe that one of the most difficult (yet required) elements of preparation is embracing the changes in what we truly place value in.  We can either embrace the transition of treasure, or we can wage a feeble struggle that will ultimately take us down a path of defeat and bitterness.  Either way, the change will happen – whether we want it or not.

“Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”  (Luke 12:35).

As I continue to prepare, I believe we all need to continually take personal inventory of the things that truly reflect value to us.  I reflect on how changes (perhaps drastic changes) might impact the items that have been labeled as a “treasure.”

Every day I am more convinced… Our real treasures can not be acquired by a purchase.

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I firmly believe we are entering a time of increasing intensity.  Events all over the world will seem magnified to a much higher degree and masses of people will be fearful and confused.  They will seek answers and many will be led astray by the “experts” who will attempt to explain the events as a physical phenomenon.

Even personal emotions will become increasingly intense.  As the foundations of the earth are shaken, so too will the foundations of our person be shaken.  We are being prepared.  I believe that which is at our core – fears, anger, frustrations-  will begin to see increasing intensity.  We will even see intensity in our relationships.

There is going to be turbulence in the world, and there is going to be increasing turbulence within the hearts of people.  The preparation process is more than gaining a simple understanding,  or perhaps following a task list.  For me, the Preparation Call is less about stocking supplies, and more about surrendering to the reality that God is our refuge and strength.

As we are faced with the difficulties, it is vital that we turn to the One who loves us in a way that goes beyond definition.  His love is deeper than our knowledge of personal comforts or intense pleasures.  His love goes beyond the temporal issues we see in time and extends into eternity.

When turmoil comes, it is important to find a restful place that is quiet and peaceful, but more than that, a place where you can experience the presence of God.  He wants a relationship with us, and wants us to rest in Him.

This is my resting place forever.” (Psalms 132:14)

According to Psalm 132:14, God has established resting places, literal places that are His resting places.  God is calling each of us to find a quiet place, a resting place where we can get alone to spend time with Him.   As you prepare, make sure to find a time to Rest in Him.

In the story of Noah, when the world was destroyed by the flood, the first thing Noah did was send a dove out to find a place to rest.

“Then he (Noah) sent forth a dove to see if the waters had decreased from the surface of the ground. But the dove found no resting place on which to roost, and she returned to him to the ark, for the waters were yet on the face of the whole land. So he put forth his hand and drew her to him into the ark” (Genesis 8:8-9).

Noah represents God, and the Ark represents the safety of the presence of God. Only when you enter into His presence will you find that place of peace and rest.

Trust Him to lead you to His resting place.

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For years, I really didn’t fully understand much about the economy and how it worked. I just got a paycheck, deposited it into my bank, and paid my bills. When prices went up, usually I got a raise at work so I really didn’t notice too much difference with how much money I had left over each month.

Of course, that was before I felt the call to prepare, and began really grasping things that were going on. We’re still learning on the journey but, certainly there is a much-better understanding of some very important difficulties – and why we must prepare.

Over the years, I’ve heard people state they have confidence that our Government leaders will ultimately make the right decisions regarding our economy. While I certainly pray for our leaders and believe most of them serve with good intentions, I simply have lost confidence in the way “politics” is now impacting the decision making process.

It has become obvious to more-and-more people that we are heading for very perilous times. I have started discussing the need to prepare for economic collapse, and especially the potential for hyperinflation.

I will love thee, O Lord, my strength. The Lord is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower. Psalm 18:1-2

In order to really understand how to best prepare (and especially what we will discuss in the days ahead), you need to have a solid grasp on what hyperinflation is. In simple terms it is tied into inflation levels that are extremely high and out of control. They are well beyond the norms of inflation.
As a result of hyperinflation prices increase rapidly. This causes many of complex concerns. There are basic things we all need and those seem to what the price increases hit the hardest.

For example when you go to fill your car up at the gas station you may find that it has jumped by several cents per gallon. Sometimes those jumps are as much as ten cents per gallon overnight too. This can increase the budget in your household for fuel substantially.

We all have to eat and the cost of food continues to increase during hyperinflation too. When you buy food items at the grocery store it is going to be much more than before. Due to the increased costs of supplies it also means you can plan on paying more when you dine out.

One of the other significant areas of the budget where you will see increases are in utilities. Most of us have seen several spikes and increases in the costs of utilities over the past couple of years. It is tough due to the fact that we need water, heat, and cooling available to us. We also need electricity so we feel that we are at the mercy of such companies.

Due to hyperinflation it is very hard for many households to make ends meet. They find their costs for necessities goes up and so they have less disposable income. For those on a fixed income or low income who were just getting by it is now virtually impossible.

Households are cutting out extras and that is why so many businesses are having problems too. When a household can barely meet their required expenses they aren’t spending on items that they consider to be wants or luxuries any more.

The terminology that experts use for hyperinflation is… a period of time when the cycle of inflation continues to grow so rapidly that there isn’t any real balance in sight for it.

When you have an increase in costs that is very fast, there is no controlling it, and prices are continually increasing with large jumps you have more than inflation to deal with – it is hyperinflation. It is very unusual but it does happen and it is something that the US dollar could be heading towards.

In order for hyperinflation to be present without a doubt one of two things must occur:

• If the accumulated inflation rate of the past 3 year period is equal to or more than 100%

OR

• The accumulated rate of inflation is more than 50% over a one month period of time.

Even though there are historical standings of hyperinflation hundreds of years old, no one studied it and gave us solid information about it until 1956. A book by Phillip Cagan called “The Monetary Dynamics of Hyperinflation” was a huge release that showed people some of the reasons why it happens and to give them an understanding of the process.

A great deal of what is found in this book has been given credible backing by economic specialists. They have studied the foundations of the US dollar and the economy. They don’t argue with what Cagan offered in that very enlightening book.

However, that doesn’t mean our Nation now has all of the answers of how to prevent high inflation and hyperinflation from occurring. The good news though is that the government and all citizens have access to information that can help them to identify the signs that may indicate that hyperinflation is going to happen.

It can help use to take action that will change the course of history. Most people don’t think much about economics or the economy of the USA when things are going well. When they turn the other way though people are fun of panic over it and they are ready to place blame.

Taking responsibility for the economy is a role we all need to step into. Too often citizens feel that their hands are tied and they have to make do with what is going on. Yet they have decisions about buying commodities such as gold, reaching out for credit that is offered, and how they will handle their own finances in tough economic times.

Have Faith in God.  Pray for our Leaders.

The post More Preparation Insight on Hyperinflation appeared first on Joseph Report.

Have you ever felt nervous about something unexpected happening? Maybe a big storm, or a power outage? It’s normal to feel this way, but did you know that being prepared for these things can actually bring us joy and peace? Yes, that’s right! Just like a squirrel gathers nuts for winter, we can also prepare for things in life, and this can make us feel happy and secure.

The Bible, God’s special book for us, talks a lot about being prepared and finding joy in it. Let’s explore how being ready for anything can bring us joy and peace, just like it says in the Bible.

Philippians 4:6-7 (NIV) says, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” This verse is like a warm hug from God, telling us not to worry because He is with us. When we prepare for things, we can do it with a happy heart, knowing that God is watching over us.

Imagine you have a big test at school. You study hard, and you’re ready for it. When you sit down to take the test, you feel calm and confident, not scared or worried. That’s a little like what God wants for us when we prepare for other things in life. We can feel joy because we know we’ve done our best to be ready.

Proverbs 21:31 (NIV) says, “The horse is made ready for the day of battle, but victory rests with the LORD.” In Bible times, people prepared horses for battle, but they knew that God was the one who would help them win. Just like them, we can prepare for things in our lives, but always remember that God is with us, helping us along the way.

So, how can we find joy in being prepared? Here are a few tips:

1. Pray and Trust God: Talk to God about what you’re preparing for. Ask Him to help you and to give you peace.
2. Do Your Part: Just like studying for a test, do what you can to be ready. If it’s getting ready for a storm, make sure you have things like water, food, and flashlights.
3. Share with Others: Helping your family or friends get ready can be really fun. It’s like being on a special team where everyone works together.
4. Be Thankful: Remember to thank God for everything you have to help you be prepared, like your home, your family, and your brain!
5. Celebrate: When you’ve done a great job preparing, celebrate! Maybe have a little party or do something fun with your family.

Remember, God loves it when we’re prepared because it shows we’re using the wisdom He gave us.  And you know what’s great…?

We can have joy and peace in our hearts, knowing that we’re ready for anything – and have the Faith to know that God is sovereign and has us in His care!

The post Joy in Preparedness: Finding Strength and Happiness in Being Ready appeared first on Joseph Report.

In times of crisis, whether personal, national, or global, preparedness becomes not just a matter of practicality but also a test of endurance, patience, and faith. Today, many face the challenges of navigating through unprecedented difficulties such as natural disasters, pandemics, and economic uncertainty. For those who take preparedness seriously, the weight of these responsibilities can be overwhelming. However, we are not the first to face such daunting tasks, nor are we alone in dealing with feelings of discouragement. The story of Joseph in the Bible serves as a profound example of how God can use overwhelming circumstances for good and how faith, vision, and perseverance can transform even the most discouraging of situations into opportunities for divine breakthrough.

This report will explore the story of Joseph as recorded in Genesis, reflecting on the immense responsibilities placed upon him and how he overcame discouragement. We will also connect this biblical narrative to the challenges we face today, highlighting how we can experience a “Joseph awakening” to meet the demands of our times with faith and perseverance.

1. The Story of Joseph: From Betrayal to Blessing

Joseph, the son of Jacob, was thrust into an unimaginable series of challenges at a young age. His story begins in Genesis 37 when his brothers, out of jealousy, sold him into slavery. Despite this betrayal, God had a plan for Joseph’s life that went far beyond what he or anyone around him could have imagined.

In Genesis 39:2-3 (NAS), we read:
“The Lord was with Joseph, so he became a successful man. And he was in the house of his master, the Egyptian. Now his master saw that the Lord was with him and how the Lord caused all that he did to prosper in his hand.”
Even though Joseph was a slave, God’s favor was upon him. However, things did not immediately improve. Joseph was falsely accused of a crime he did not commit and thrown into prison. Yet, even in prison, God’s presence and favor continued to guide him.

In Genesis 39:21-22 (NAS), it says:
“But the Lord was with Joseph and extended kindness to him, and gave him favor in the sight of the chief jailer. The chief jailer committed to Joseph’s charge all the prisoners who were in the jail; so that whatever was done there, he was responsible for it.”
Joseph’s circumstances seemed hopeless from the outside, but God’s unseen hand was preparing him for an even greater responsibility: leading Egypt through a devastating famine.

2. Joseph’s Overwhelming Task: Preparing for Famine

Joseph’s most significant challenge came when God gave him the interpretation of Pharaoh’s dreams in Genesis 41. The dreams predicted seven years of abundance followed by seven years of famine. Pharaoh appointed Joseph to manage the nation’s resources and prepare for this looming crisis. The task was enormous—Joseph was charged with preparing an entire nation for seven years of scarcity. This required careful planning, resource management, and the ability to lead others in times of prosperity and trial.

Genesis 41:46-49 (NAS) describes Joseph’s diligence:
“Now Joseph was thirty years old when he stood before Pharaoh, king of Egypt. And Joseph went out from the presence of Pharaoh and went through all the land of Egypt. During the seven years of plenty the land brought forth abundantly. So he gathered all the food of these seven years which occurred in the land of Egypt and placed the food in the cities; he placed in every city the food from its own surrounding fields. Thus Joseph stored up grain in great abundance like the sand of the sea, until he stopped measuring it, for it was beyond measure.”
The responsibility was daunting, but Joseph remained steadfast. He understood that God had entrusted him with the task of preparing for the coming famine, and he did so with faith and perseverance.

3. The Discouragement Joseph Faced

Although Joseph was successful in his role, there were undoubtedly moments when the weight of the task was overwhelming. Leading a nation through years of both abundance and famine would have required an extraordinary amount of physical, emotional, and spiritual endurance. Joseph had to balance his personal feelings with his responsibility to the people of Egypt. The famine affected not only Egypt but also surrounding nations, and the burden of meeting their needs likely placed even more pressure on Joseph’s shoulders.

Joseph’s ability to remain faithful in the face of discouragement is a lesson for us today. Despite the challenges, Joseph kept his eyes on God’s plan and trusted that his obedience would lead to deliverance not only for Egypt but for his own family, who would later seek refuge from the famine.

4. Today’s Challenges and the Need for a Joseph Awakening

We find ourselves in a time when preparedness is more critical than ever. Natural disasters, pandemics, political unrest, and economic instability all pose threats that can overwhelm even the most prepared individuals and families. Just as Joseph was called to prepare for a time of crisis, so too are we called to be vigilant and ready for the challenges ahead.

The story of Joseph teaches us that discouragement will come, but it must not be allowed to derail our purpose. As we prepare for potential crises, it is essential to adopt a “Joseph awakening” mindset, understanding that our preparedness is not just for ourselves but for the greater good of those around us.

In Romans 5:3-4 (NAS), we are reminded:
“And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope.”
Just as Joseph persevered through betrayal, slavery, false accusations, and famine, we too can persevere through the discouragements of our time. Our preparedness efforts may feel overwhelming at times, but they are building in us the character and endurance necessary to face future challenges with hope.

5. Encouragement for Today: Relying on God’s Strength

One of the most profound lessons from Joseph’s story is that he did not accomplish his task in his own strength. Throughout his journey, the Bible repeatedly emphasizes that “the Lord was with Joseph” (Genesis 39:2, 21). In our preparedness efforts, we must also rely on God’s strength rather than our own. When we feel overwhelmed, we can turn to scriptures that remind us of God’s faithfulness.

Isaiah 41:10 (NAS) provides a powerful promise:
“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.”
This verse reassures us that we do not have to face the challenges of preparedness alone. Just as God upheld Joseph, He will uphold us in our efforts to prepare for the future.

Conclusion: Embracing the Joseph Awakening

The story of Joseph is not just a historical account but a living testament to how we can navigate overwhelming challenges today. The “Joseph awakening” calls us to recognize the divine purpose in our preparedness efforts. It invites us to see beyond the immediate discouragement and trust that God is working through our actions to provide for others, both in times of abundance and crisis.

As we prepare, let us remember that God is with us, guiding us through the difficulties and giving us the strength to persevere. In the end, just as Joseph’s faithful preparedness led to the salvation of many, so too can our efforts bring hope and provision to those around us in times of need.

Philippians 4:13 (NAS) reminds us:
“I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.”

With this in mind, let us rise to the challenge with a “Joseph awakening,” knowing that our preparedness today is part of God’s greater plan for tomorrow.

The post Overcoming Discouragement and Difficulties in Preparedness – A Joseph Awakening appeared first on Joseph Report.

Imagine the whispers in Egypt’s marketplaces. Picture the sideways glances and subtle head-shaking as Joseph ordered the construction of yet another granary during a time of unprecedented abundance. “Why store so much when the harvests are plenty?” they must have wondered. “Surely this Hebrew dreamer has lost his mind.”

A thousand years earlier, the same whispers had followed Noah. Year after year, the master shipbuilder labored under cloudless skies, constructing an ark for a flood no one could imagine. Century after century, this story of steadfast preparation would echo through time, speaking to those rare souls who dare to prepare for what others cannot see.

The Loneliness of Divine Foresight

“By faith Noah, being warned by God about things not yet seen, in reverence prepared an ark for the salvation of his household, by which he condemned the world, and became an heir of the righteousness which is according to faith.” – Hebrews 11:7 (NASB)

There’s a unique kind of loneliness that comes with divine foresight. Noah felt it with every hammer stroke that echoed across dry land. Joseph experienced it as he systematically stored grain during years of plenty. Even the prophet Elijah understood it when he declared a drought under clear skies.

These men share a common thread: they acted on God’s wisdom when it appeared foolish to everyone else. Their stories teach us that godly preparation often looks like folly to a world drunk on temporary abundance.

The Weight of Sacred Knowledge

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” – Proverbs 9:10 (NASB)

Consider Joseph’s position. God had revealed through Pharaoh’s dreams what no economist could predict: seven years of abundance followed by seven years of devastating famine. This knowledge was both a privilege and a burden. With revelation came responsibility—the responsibility to act while others remained comfortably oblivious.

In our own time, we too may feel the weight of understanding seasons. When God opens our eyes to see beyond current prosperity, it carries an obligation to act. Like Joseph, we might find ourselves taking steps that others consider excessive or unnecessary.

The Courage to Look Foolish

“For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.” – 1 Corinthians 1:18 (NASB)

Perhaps the greatest test in preparation isn’t the work itself—it’s enduring the skepticism of others. When Noah built the ark, he wasn’t just constructing a vessel; he was building a testimony. Every plank laid was a declaration of faith in God’s word over popular opinion.

Joseph faced similar challenges. Imagine explaining to Egyptian officials why they needed to systematically store grain during the most prosperous period in memory. His position as Pharaoh’s appointed leader didn’t shield him from questioning glances and doubtful murmurs.

The Hidden Wisdom in Preparation

“But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to shame the things which are strong.” – 1 Corinthians 1:27 (NASB)

There’s a profound irony in how God’s wisdom often appears. Noah’s ark seemed unnecessary until the first raindrop fell. Joseph’s granaries looked excessive until the famine began. The five wise virgins’ extra oil appeared wasteful until the bridegroom delayed.

This pattern reveals a crucial truth: Godly preparation often seems excessive until it becomes essential. Like a life insurance policy, its value isn’t apparent until it’s needed. Yet when that moment comes, the difference between those who prepared and those who scoffed becomes stark indeed.

The Prosperity Paradox

“A prudent person foresees danger and takes precautions. The simpleton goes blindly on and suffers the consequences.” – Proverbs 27:12 (NASB)

Here’s a startling insight from Joseph’s story: The greatest threat to preparation isn’t adversity—it’s prosperity. During abundance, preparation looks unnecessary. The marketplaces are full, the crops are plenty, and the future seems secure. Yet it was precisely during Egypt’s most prosperous period that preparation was most crucial.

This paradox speaks powerfully to our time. When markets are strong and shelves are stocked, the call to prepare sounds like paranoia. But prosperity has always been God’s preferred time for preparation. The wise steward knows that abundance is not an invitation to indulgence but an opportunity for preparation.

The Ministry of Preparation

“And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that always having all sufficiency in everything, you may have an abundance for every good deed.” – 2 Corinthians 9:8 (NASB)

What’s often overlooked in these biblical accounts is how personal preparation became public provision. Noah’s ark didn’t just save his family—it preserved the animal kingdom. Joseph’s storehouses didn’t just protect Egypt—they saved surrounding nations, including his own family.

This reveals preparation’s higher purpose: it’s not merely about personal survival but about positioning ourselves to be God’s instruments of provision for others. When we prepare with God’s wisdom, we become part of His supply line in times of scarcity.

The Call to Courageous Preparation

Today, you might feel the gentle nudge of the Holy Spirit calling you to prepare. Like Noah, you might not see storm clouds. Like Joseph, you might be surrounded by abundance. Yet something within you resonates with the call to prepare.

Remember: wisdom often looks like folly until time proves it right. Noah endured decades of mockery before the first raindrop fell. Joseph stored grain for seven years before the famine began. Their vindication came not from human approval but from divine timing.

Prayer for Preparatory Wisdom

Father, grant us the courage of Noah and the wisdom of Joseph. Help us hear Your voice above the crowd’s opinions. Give us strength to prepare when others doubt, and wisdom to steward abundance with eternity in view. May our preparation position us to be instruments of Your provision for others in times of need. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.” – Proverbs 3:5-6 (NASB)

Remember: The same God who vindicated Noah’s building and Joseph’s storing is calling His people to prepare today. Your obedience, though misunderstood now, may become someone else’s miracle tomorrow.

The post When Wisdom Looks Like Folly: The Courage to Prepare appeared first on Joseph Report.

For our heirloom seeds, we have found an excellent resource:  Landreth Seeds

For Grains and grain milling supplies we, of course, order from our own storehouse:  Millers Grain House.

For de-hydrated whole foods, there is no better resource that offers top quality, and organically grown:  URI International

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Years ago, the “Preparation Call” was not a popular calling. People considered us weird and extreme. Some members of my extended family called me an “alarmist”. But… at that particular time things seemed okay in the world, so people assumed all would be well.

Fast forward to today, and you see a completely different story. People are concerned with what they read in the news every day. People are afraid, and wondering what the future holds.

Even as things seem to be falling apart, I am confident in the One who has my heart. I am encouraged with the following words from Scripture…

Fear thou not; for I am with you: do not be dismayed; for I am your God… (Isaiah 41:10)

I do not know all that is coming, but I do believe we have some very difficult times ahead. In the USA, I believe we will be entering into a time where our Constitution will be in a serious crisis. That will cause further fear, chaos, and turmoil. The time to prepare is now, and to draw closer to Yah – the One who freely gives us His Grace that we might be saved.

It is better to trust in the Lord Than to put confidence in man. It is better to trust in the Lord Than to put confidence in princes” (Psalm 118:8,9)

The day is upon us. Prepare.

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