by Joseph | Mar 2, 2026 | Preparation, Sharing
Shared by Jeff Rowland.
Regardless of where we are in our lives everyone has something in their past that they often struggle with. The past always rears its head when we are pressing toward a consistent walk in the Spirit of God. Most are robbed of their present because they are still living under the bondage of their past. As well we cannot look with hope toward our future if we are constantly going back to factor in our past to make decisions. The past seems to affect every aspect of our life. The sequence with which we look at things seems to be through the eyes of our past, then the present, then the future. Somehow we need to be able to look at our future as a Child of God and factor our future into our present and this will release us of our past.
There is a problem as to why we cannot let go of our past. The hurt our past has caused us and others should be enough of a motivator to let it go, but we seem to hold on to our past with a passion. This perplexing problem has caused many in the body to lose control of their lives. Paul teaches us in Phil 3:13 “forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before.” By these words we understand the things before can play a significant role in forgetting the things behind.
We live in a society that is constantly asking the question why we do the things we do. Often instead of dealing with what we do we just want to find out why we do them. Now we have a place to put our past. I have learned through the years of pastoring and dealing with people that the past seems to take the blame for just about all of our present. While there may be some truth from a psychological standpoint concerning our past dictating action in our present we must learn to get past our past.
One of the reasons that we cannot let go of our past is that it becomes an excuse for our behavior in our present.
If the hurts of our past are gone then we are left without excuse to act the way we do or to hold on to an attitude that we are afraid we cannot break. What would we do if we have nothing to blame for our behavior. Then we are left to face the reality of our own selfish motives and sinful imperfections. This would mean we would have to change our lives in order to live with ourselves and let go of the pain and hurt that brings about other behavior that is not consistent with our belief structure.
Another reason we cannot let go of our past is it often is the only victory we can remember in our lives.
How many are still trapped living in the past victories we have experienced. We should always remember the victories of our past but never let them to cause us to stop pursuing more. Again Paul reminds us that we are more than conquerors. A conqueror is one who doesn’t stop at one victory but presses on to new battles and new victories. Some are looking for what God done in the past because they are hung on past victories and not living as a conqueror.
May God give us the strength to appropriate our future into our present thus destroying our past and go on to new battles and new victories fulfilling the soldier calling of being more than a conqueror through Christ Jesus our Lord.
Rev. Jeff Rowland offers more insights on Last Days Preparation on his website at: www.jeffrowlandministry.com
by Joseph | Mar 2, 2026 | Preparation, Sharing
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” – Jeremiah 29:11
In times of impending calamity, it is easy to feel overwhelmed, anxious, and hopeless. However, as believers, we can find comfort, strength, and hope in the promises of God’s Word. The Bible is filled with examples of individuals who faced tremendous adversity yet emerged victorious through their faith and trust in God.
One such example is Joseph, whose story is found in the book of Genesis. Despite being sold into slavery by his brothers and later falsely imprisoned, Joseph remained faithful to God. He used his God-given wisdom and discernment to prepare for the coming famine, not only saving Egypt but also his own family. Genesis 41:33-36 says, “Now let Pharaoh look for a man discerning and wise, and set him over the land of Egypt. Let Pharaoh take action to appoint overseers in charge of the land, and let him exact a fifth of the produce of the land of Egypt in the seven years of abundance. Then let them gather all the food of these good years that are coming, and store up the grain for food in the cities under Pharaoh’s authority, and let them guard it. Let the food become as a reserve for the land for the seven years of famine which will occur in the land of Egypt, so that the land will not perish during the famine.”
Like Joseph, we too can prepare for the challenges ahead by seeking God’s wisdom and guidance. We can find hope in the knowledge that God is sovereign and in control, even when our circumstances seem dire. As we trust in Him and follow His leading, we can experience His peace that surpasses all understanding (Philippians 4:7).
Moreover, we can draw strength from the promise found in Romans 8:28, which states, “And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.” This verse reminds us that even in the midst of trials and tribulations, God is working behind the scenes to bring about His perfect plan for our lives.
As we face the uncertainty of the future, let us hold fast to the hope we have in Christ. Let us prepare our hearts and minds through prayer, meditation on God’s Word, and wise action. May we, like Joseph, remain faithful and obedient to God, trusting that He will guide us, provide for us, and ultimately bring us through the storms of life.
Remember, “He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say to the Lord, ‘My refuge and my fortress, My God, in whom I trust!'” – Psalm 91:1-2
by Joseph | Mar 2, 2026 | Sharing
The story of Joseph in Egypt is a timeless example of how faith, wisdom, and practical action can prepare us for unforeseen challenges. Joseph’s journey from prisoner to a trusted leader in Pharaoh’s court, as recounted in Genesis, provides valuable insights into the steps of preparedness we should adopt today. Through his actions, we can see how trusting in God’s guidance, praying for wisdom, planning, saving, and leading by example prepared Joseph to face one of the greatest challenges of his time—a seven-year famine that affected the entire region. Here are the five essential steps Joseph took and how they can guide us in preparing for the difficult times ahead.
Step 1: Following God’s Leading
The foundation of Joseph’s success was his unwavering faith and his commitment to following God’s guidance. Even when he faced betrayal, imprisonment, and hardship, Joseph never lost sight of God’s presence in his life. His faith empowered him to act with integrity and seek God’s purpose in every circumstance. When Pharaoh shared his troubling dreams, Joseph responded by giving glory to God and sought His interpretation, saying, “It is not in me; God will give Pharaoh a favorable answer” (Genesis 41:16, NAS). Joseph’s commitment to following God’s guidance allowed him to interpret the dreams accurately and understand the upcoming famine.
Application Today: Just as Joseph followed God’s leading, we too must seek God’s guidance as the first step in our preparedness. Facing challenges without a foundation in faith can lead to fear and confusion. Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us, “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” (NAS). By putting our trust in God, we gain clarity and strength to make wise choices and act with purpose, knowing He is with us through every trial.
Step 2: Praying for Wisdom and Discernment
Throughout his life, Joseph depended on God for insight and wisdom. After being promoted to a position of power, he prayed for discernment to execute the right steps to prepare Egypt. His insight into Pharaoh’s dreams was God-given, and his subsequent decisions reflected prayerful wisdom, showing that true discernment is rooted in a relationship with God. In James 1:5, we are reminded, “But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him” (NAS). Joseph’s life illustrates that God gives wisdom to those who seek it, enabling us to act wisely even in challenging times.
Application Today: When planning for the future, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or uncertain. Like Joseph, we should turn to prayer for wisdom and guidance. Whether facing economic uncertainty, family challenges, or health concerns, our preparedness should be guided by prayer. Through prayer, we find peace and gain clarity on the practical steps to take, ensuring that our actions align with God’s will.
Step 3: Creating a Strategic Plan
Joseph not only received revelation about the famine but also crafted a strategic plan to navigate it. After interpreting Pharaoh’s dreams, Joseph advised him to “appoint overseers in the land and take a fifth of the produce of the land of Egypt during the seven years of abundance” (Genesis 41:34, NAS). Joseph’s plan included storing surplus grain during the years of plenty to ensure food was available when famine struck. This planning phase demonstrated Joseph’s wisdom and practical foresight.
Application Today: Strategic planning is an essential step in preparing for the unknown. While we may not face a literal famine, financial instability, natural disasters, or health crises can impact us at any time. Proverbs 21:5 says, “The plans of the diligent lead surely to advantage, but everyone who is hasty comes surely to poverty” (NAS). Diligent planning in areas like budgeting, food security, and emergency resources ensures that we’re not caught off guard. By preparing intentionally, we build a foundation of stability for ourselves and those we care for.
Step 4: Saving and Storing Resources in Times of Abundance
A hallmark of Joseph’s preparedness was his commitment to saving during the years of abundance. By gathering and storing grain, Joseph ensured Egypt had reserves when scarcity struck. His discipline in saving was vital to Egypt’s survival during the seven-year famine. “He gathered all the food of these seven years which occurred in the land of Egypt and placed the food in the cities” (Genesis 41:48, NAS). Joseph’s actions teach us that saving during good times is essential to weathering the storms of difficult times.
Application Today: In today’s context, saving might include setting aside finances, building a pantry of essential supplies, or learning new skills. Proverbs 6:6-8 encourages us to be diligent like the ant, “which prepares its food in the summer and gathers its provision in the harvest” (NAS). By creating reserves when resources are plentiful, we protect ourselves and our families against potential hardships. Preparedness is an act of wisdom, reminding us that stability is built step by step, through disciplined and thoughtful saving.
Step 5: Leading by Example and Helping Others
The final step in Joseph’s preparedness was his leadership and willingness to help others. When famine spread throughout Egypt and surrounding regions, people traveled to Egypt to purchase grain. Through his actions, Joseph showed that preparedness is not merely for personal benefit but also for the good of others. Genesis 41:57 tells us, “The people of all the earth came to Egypt to buy grain from Joseph, because the famine was severe in all the earth” (NAS). Joseph’s commitment to preparedness allowed him to provide not only for Egypt but also for those who came in need.
Application Today: Our preparedness journey can impact our families, communities, and even beyond. When we lead by example, others can see the value in planning and seeking God’s wisdom. Philippians 2:4 encourages us, “do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others” (NAS). When we build preparedness into our lives, we create a ripple effect of stability and hope, equipping ourselves to support others and offer a sense of security to those who may be struggling.
Conclusion: Preparedness as an Act of Faith and Obedience
Joseph’s preparedness was not merely a reaction to an impending crisis but a reflection of his faith, obedience, and trust in God. Each step—from seeking God’s guidance to leading by example—reveals a practical and spiritual journey of preparedness. His life is a testament to the importance of trusting in God’s timing, acting on His wisdom, and preparing for the unknown with a heart of stewardship.
For us today, these steps are more than historical insights; they are God-given principles for building resilience and hope in uncertain times. Following God’s leading, praying for wisdom, planning, saving, and helping others are pillars of a prepared life, equipping us to stand firm in faith, no matter what lies ahead. As Jesus taught in Matthew 7:24-25, “Everyone who hears these words of Mine and acts on them, may be compared to a wise man who built his house on the rock. And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and slammed against that house; and yet it did not fall, for it had been founded on the rock” (NAS).
By grounding our preparedness in God’s wisdom, we build a firm foundation on the Rock of Christ, ready to face whatever trials may come. Just as Joseph’s actions provided life and hope during a time of famine, our preparedness can shine as a beacon of faith and stability to those around us, reflecting God’s love and provision in every season.
by Joseph | Mar 2, 2026 | Sharing
Have you ever felt that deep, unsettling loneliness that comes when you’re following a call to prepare, but those around you just can’t see what you see? I’m reminded of Noah, who must have felt this acutely as he built an ark on dry land, enduring years of mockery while constructing a massive vessel for a flood no one believed would come. “By faith Noah, being warned by God about things not yet seen, in reverence prepared an ark for the salvation of his household” (Hebrews 11:7, NAS). His story speaks deeply to those of us who feel compelled to prepare for things others can’t yet see.
I often wonder how Joseph felt in those early days, when he shared his insights about the future while still wearing a shepherd’s cloak. His brothers’ sneering response, “Here comes this dreamer!” (Genesis 37:19, NAS), must have cut deep into his young heart. Yet something within him knew – he had to stay true to what he understood was coming, even when it made him look foolish.
Perhaps you’re there right now. Maybe you’re sensing approaching storms and beginning preparations that seem excessive or unnecessary to others. Whether you’re building spiritual fortifications, developing practical preparations, or following a conviction that seems bizarre to those around you, you’re not alone in this journey. The path of preparation often looks like madness to outside observers.
Let me share three essential anchors that can help us stand firm when our preparations make us look foolish:
- Root Yourself in Quiet Confidence When others question your sanity or wisdom, remember that meaningful preparation often flows from deep conviction rather than popular opinion. Think about Jeremiah, who purchased land while Jerusalem was under siege – an act that seemed absolutely crazy to everyone watching (Jeremiah 32:6-15). Yet his action flowed from a quiet confidence in what he knew to be true.
“Each person must be fully convinced in his own mind” (Romans 14:5, NAS). This isn’t about stubbornness or pride; it’s about that settled peace that comes from careful consideration and conscience. When doubts creep in (and they will), return to that initial conviction that started you on this journey.
- Find Strength in Future Focus One of the most powerful ways to stand firm is to keep your eyes fixed on what lies ahead rather than on current criticism. Paul captured this beautifully when he wrote, “While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen; for the things which are seen are temporal, but the things which are not seen are eternal” (2 Corinthians 4:18, NAS).
Consider how Noah must have focused on the coming rain rather than the daily ridicule. Each plank he nailed, every seam he sealed, was an act of faith in what he understood was coming. When people question your preparations, let their skepticism remind you of why you started preparing in the first place.
- Build a Foundation of Wisdom and Discernment Standing firm requires more than just determination – it requires wisdom. “But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach” (James 1:5, NAS). This means:
- Regularly examining your motives and methods
- Staying open to guidance and correction
- Maintaining balance in your preparation efforts
- Being willing to adjust your approach while staying true to your core conviction
In practice, this might look like developing skills others consider irrelevant, storing resources when abundance seems endless, or building spiritual disciplines in a pleasure-seeking culture. Whatever form your preparation takes, remember that you’re in good company. History is filled with people who looked foolish until time proved them wise.
I’m particularly moved by how Joseph handled his time of preparation. Through slavery and imprisonment, he didn’t just wait passively – he developed skills and wisdom that would later save nations. While others saw a prisoner, he was becoming a leader. While they saw punishment, he was in preparation.
The reality is, meaningful preparation often looks like destruction to outside observers. When you’re being positioned for future purpose, the process may appear as dismantling rather than construction. Just as a sculptor must remove excess stone to reveal the masterpiece within, thorough preparation often involves stripping away what others consider essential.
Remember, Noah wasn’t crazy; he was prepared. Jeremiah wasn’t foolish; he was forward-thinking. Joseph wasn’t delusional; he was discerning. Your commitment to preparation, regardless of how it appears to others, positions you to help both yourself and others in times of need.
Take heart in knowing that the apparent madness of your preparation may become a badge of honor rather than a source of shame. Today’s foolishness may be tomorrow’s wisdom, and current ridicule may be preparing the way for future provision. Stand firm in your conviction, maintain your focus in preparation, and let time validate your foresight.
“But the path of the righteous is like the light of dawn, that shines brighter and brighter until the full day” (Proverbs 4:18, NAS). Keep walking your path of preparation, dear friend. The dawn will break, and your preparation will prove its worth.
by Joseph | Mar 2, 2026 | Preparation, Sharing
Most people remain oblivious of what is going on with the USA. Our moral decline has reached epidemic status, and our churches have turned into entertainment venues – promoting a humanistic “feel good” gospel.
Some people are looking to our Government for answers, and have faith that our elected leaders will have the wisdom and courage to lead us into a new prosperous era. Charismatic leaders are emerging – and we now have people pledging an unholy allegiance to man, rather than calling out to a Holy God.
Pledging allegiance
It is quite disturbing that the church has fallen asleep. While the churches have been busy chasing lavish buildings, and competing for higher attendance, our society has fallen into peril.
Now, as things change rapidly, we will soon see more unrest and chaos. Our economic downfall is but the beginning of difficulties ahead. As the greatest investor in the world Warren Buffett puts it, the credit freeze is “sucking blood” out of the economy. “In my adult lifetime, I don’t think I’ve ever seen people as fearful,” he said.
If you doubt there is chaos looming, I wonder why our US Government is now activating an Army Brigade for duty (the first time in our history an active unit has been given a dedicated assignment to NorthCom) within our borders. Very unsettling.
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They may be called upon to help with civil unrest and crowd control or to deal with potentially horrific scenarios such as massive poisoning and chaos in response to a chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear or high-yield explosive, or CBRNE, attack.
Do you think the Government knows something we don’t?
by Joseph | Mar 2, 2026 | Preparation, Sharing
There is so much uncertainty in the world right now. Everywhere you go, people seem discouraged and quite concerned about events that are taking place. If you listen to the news media (which I do not encourage), you know that there is a massive blitz taking place to put fear into the hearts of men.
Years ago, I felt the “Call to Preparation”‘. It was laid on my heart that we would experience difficult times, where panic would grip people, and fear would converge on nations.
In the midst of a storm, the human tendency is to look at the waves crashing against our vessel or at the dark clouds that keep us from seeing the sunshine. Our “flesh” is weakened by the fear for our safety and comfort.
The answer is always to look to the One who calms the storms – He who sits on the throne and offers us peace, joy, security, and direction.
The events and fears we are experiencing was placed in my heart over 8 years ago. Even as I have been preparing for years- my flesh still battles the difficulties, and I sense the burdens of others who are beginning to fall into despair.
My encouragement is to look away from the media and to trust in the One who walked on the water, the One who raised Lazarus from death, and the One who is returning for His bride.
Our God is Faithful!
Be encouraged as our Faith is not in the warped message of CNN. The media can/does manipulate world events by the seed they plant into the hearts of people. Now, for purposes yet exposed – the seed of fear is being planted and watered all over the world.
The emerging “global system” is being formed right before our eyes, and will be formed as a necessity to solve the current crisis. I’ll share more in the coming weeks, but strongly believe that NOW is the time Believers should be in strong prayer and preparation. NOT living in fear, but preparing for the great harvest that is ahead.
I strongly encourage believers not to enter into debt during this time. That goes against the very message we are being told by the media and government – as it is the base of our economic system. It is also part of the flesh desire for more “things” that has led to much of this crisis.
For my family, I have felt led to develop a “3-Year Plan”. I believe we have a “window” of three years before things get really interesting.
