It is hard to find a topic that has more questions than “preparedness”. It is not only a matter of “what can I do”, but it is also a matter of “when will it happen”. There are those who believe that we are in the end times and there are others who think that it is all bunk. So, what do you believe? Do you have any idea what is going on with the world around you? Have you ever thought about how your family might be affected by what is happening around you? Are you prepared for the things that could happen? What are you going to do if there is a natural disaster? Will you be able to handle it? How will you survive without food, water, electricity, etc.?
What do I need to do?
First, you need to know what you need to do. This is not as easy as it sounds. You need to know what you need and then you need to get it. If you are like most people, you probably don’t even know where to begin. Where do you start? Where do you buy your supplies? What type of supplies should you buy? Do you need to get a generator? What about fuel? Should you get a solar panel? How do you protect yourself from the elements? How much money should you spend on supplies? How much should you spend on food? How much should you spend for your home?
The first thing that you should do is talk to someone who knows about this stuff. Find out what you need to do. Don’t rely on the Internet for answers. There are a lot of people who want to sell you stuff that you don’t need. They may tell you that they have the answer for you. They may even be able to help you get the supplies that you need. But, you have to ask the right questions. Don’t just go off of what you hear. Ask them if they have heard of a specific product or company that they would recommend. Don’t just rely on their opinion. Take their advice and then make an informed decision.
Are we in the end times?
Some people believe that the end times are upon us now. Others think that it will take place at some point in the future. If you are one of the people who thinks that the end times are coming soon, then you need to make sure that you are prepared. You need to be able to take care of yourself and your family. You need to know how to survive in case something happens.
If you are one of the people that believes that the end times are coming, then you need to do your research. You need to find out what the signs are that we are in the end time. You need to find out when these events will occur. You need to know what to expect. Then, you need to plan accordingly.
Is this Bible Prophesy?
Many people believe that the Bible prophecies are being fulfilled right now. Some people believe that they are already in the middle of the fulfillment. Others believe that they are still in the beginning stages of the fulfillment. Whatever you believe, you need to understand what the Bible says about these things. You need to understand what the signs are. Then, you need to decide if the Bible prophecies are being realized or not.
The Bible speaks of many different things. It talks about wars, famines, earthquakes, floods, plagues, and many other things. These things are happening today. The question is, are they happening because of the end times? Is it possible that they are happening because of natural disasters? The Bible does say that there are signs that are being seen today. These signs include wars, earthquakes, and famines. These things are happening today, but are they happening because of the Bible prophesies?
Is it possible that these things are happening because of natural disasters and not because of the end times?
There are some who believe that the Bible prophecies have already been fulfilled. There are some who believe that the end times are already here. There are others who think that the end times are yet to come. What do you believe?
The Anguish of Isolation: Finding Solace in Joseph’s Preparedness Journey
As we embark on our preparedness journey, the path can often feel lonely and isolating. We may find ourselves surrounded by those who do not understand our convictions or share our sense of urgency. The weight of this isolation can be suffocating, leaving us feeling as though we are wandering through an endless desert, desperately searching for an oasis of understanding and support. In these moments of despair, we can turn to the story of Joseph, a man who faced unimaginable loneliness and isolation, yet remained steadfast in his faith and purpose.
We are Likely to Encounter Betrayal:
Joseph’s story begins with a gut-wrenching betrayal. His own brothers, consumed by jealousy and resentment, ripped him away from the comfort and security of his home and sold him into slavery (Genesis 37:28). The pain of this betrayal must have been excruciating, a searing wound that would leave lasting scars on Joseph’s heart. As he was dragged away to a foreign land, Joseph likely felt the full weight of his isolation, the realization that he was utterly alone in his suffering.
The Depths of Despair:
In Egypt, Joseph’s isolation only intensified. He was a stranger in a strange land, surrounded by people who did not share his language, culture, or beliefs. Despite his unwavering loyalty and diligence, Joseph was falsely accused and thrown into prison (Genesis 39:1-20). In the darkness of his cell, Joseph must have felt the walls of isolation closing in around him, suffocating his hopes and dreams. The loneliness was a physical ache, a constant reminder of his separation from all that he held dear.
The Preparedness Journey:
As we navigate our own preparedness journeys, we may find ourselves echoing Joseph’s despair. The road can be long and arduous, filled with obstacles and setbacks that threaten to break our spirits. We may feel like outcasts, misunderstood by those who do not share our convictions. The weight of responsibility can be overwhelming, as we strive to ensure the safety and well-being of ourselves and our loved ones in the face of an uncertain future.
Finding Solace in Faith:
Yet, even in the depths of his despair, Joseph clung to his faith. He trusted in God’s plan, even when it seemed like all hope was lost. In the darkness of his prison cell, Joseph found solace in his relationship with God, a bond that could not be broken by the chains of isolation. He continued to serve and minister to those around him, using his gifts to interpret dreams and offer wisdom (Genesis 40:1-23).
As we face the anguish of isolation on our preparedness journey, we too can find solace in our faith. We can cling to the promise that God is with us, even in our darkest moments. We can trust that He has a plan for us, a purpose that extends beyond our current suffering. By leaning into our relationship with God, we can find the strength and resilience to persevere, even when the path seems impossibly lonely.
Building Community Bridges:
In addition to our faith, we can also find comfort in building bridges with others who share our convictions. Seek out communities of like-minded individuals, whether in person or online, who understand the importance of preparedness. These connections can provide a lifeline in times of isolation, reminding us that we are not alone in our journey.
Moreover, we can strive to be a light in the darkness for others who may feel isolated and alone. Share your knowledge and skills with compassion and understanding, inviting others to join you on the path to preparedness. By extending a hand of friendship and support, we can create a network of resilience, a community that can weather any storm.
Conclusion:
The anguish of isolation on the preparedness journey is a heavy burden to bear, but we can find hope and solace in the story of Joseph. His unwavering faith and resilience in the face of unimaginable loneliness and betrayal serve as a testament to the power of trust in God’s plan. As we navigate our own paths, let us cling to our faith, build bridges with others, and remember that we are never truly alone. Like Joseph, our suffering and isolation may be the very things that shape us into the leaders and beacons of hope we are meant to be.
“But his bow remained firm, and his arms were agile, from the hands of the Mighty One of Jacob.” – Genesis 49:24 (NASB)
In our Instagram-filtered world, we often see life as a journey from struggle to success—a straight line from the pit to the palace. Yet Joseph’s story reveals a more nuanced truth: the real challenge isn’t just surviving the valleys or reaching the peaks—it’s maintaining spiritual equilibrium in both extremes.
The Danger of Defining Moments
Consider this: Which was Joseph’s defining moment? Was it the day his brothers threw him into the pit, or when Pharaoh placed his ring on Joseph’s finger? Our instinct says the promotion, but here’s the paradox: both moments carried equal spiritual danger.
“For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them.” – Ephesians 2:10 (NASB)
Joseph’s story isn’t just about rising from slavery to sovereignty; it’s about maintaining the same spiritual DNA in radically different circumstances. In the pit, he faced the temptation of despair. In the palace, he faced the seduction of self-sufficiency. Both extremes threatened to disconnect him from his divine purpose.
The Prosperity Paradox
“I know how to get along with little, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need.” – Philippians 4:12 (NASB)
Here’s a thought that might challenge us: Was Joseph in more spiritual danger when he was interpreting dreams in prison or when he was controlling the ancient world’s food supply? Prosperity often does what persecution cannot—it subtly shifts our dependence from God to our own capabilities.
When Joseph stored grain during the seven prosperous years, he wasn’t just practicing good administration—he was demonstrating a profound spiritual truth: abundance requires more discipline than scarcity. In abundance, he remained the same Joseph who had learned dependence in the pit.
The Mathematics of Mercy
“But Joseph said to them, ‘Do not be afraid, for am I in God’s place?'” – Genesis 50:19 (NASB)
Consider this startling calculation: Joseph spent 13 years in slavery and prison, followed by seven years of abundance, then two years of famine before reuniting with his family. That’s 22 years of character formation before his moment of truth—facing his brothers.
The mathematical precision of God’s timing reveals something profound: steadfastness isn’t just about enduring hardship; it’s about becoming the kind of person who can handle both revenge and responsibility when the time comes.
The Strategic Silence of God
“Until the time that his word came to pass, the word of the LORD tested him.” – Psalm 105:19 (NASB)
One of the most overlooked aspects of Joseph’s story is God’s apparent silence. Unlike Abraham, Moses, or David, we never read of God speaking directly to Joseph. Yet Joseph’s life demonstrates something remarkable: steadfastness doesn’t require constant divine confirmations.
This carries a powerful message for us today: Sometimes God’s silence isn’t punishment—it’s preparation. Joseph learned to read God’s handwriting in the circumstances of his life, a skill more valuable than hearing occasional divine announcements.
The Preparation Principle
“A prudent person foresees danger and takes precautions.” – Proverbs 27:12 (NASB)
Joseph’s preparation for famine offers us a revolutionary perspective: preparation isn’t a lack of faith—it’s faith in action. Consider this fresh angle: The same Joseph who trusted God enough to interpret dreams also trusted God enough to build granaries.
This teaches us something profound about modern preparation:
Financial wisdom isn’t faithlessness
Strategic planning isn’t spiritual compromise
Resource management isn’t lack of trust
Instead, these are expressions of the same faith that sustains us in trials.
The Steadfast Spectrum
“Therefore, my beloved brothers and sisters, be steadfast, immovable, always excelling in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” – 1 Corinthians 15:58 (NASB)
Joseph’s life reveals that steadfastness operates on a spectrum:
In the pit: steadfast hope
In Potiphar’s house: steadfast integrity
In prison: steadfast service
In the palace: steadfast humility
In prosperity: steadfast wisdom
In power: steadfast mercy
Each phase required a different expression of the same core faithfulness.
The Modern Application Matrix
For today’s believers facing uncertain times, Joseph’s life offers a framework for balanced preparation:
Spiritual Preparation:
Develop pit-tested faith
Build palace-proven character
Maintain desert-deep devotion
Practical Preparation:
Create strategic reserves
Develop multiple skill sets
Build sustainable systems
Relational Preparation:
Cultivate trustworthy connections
Maintain integrity in all dealings
Practice preemptive forgiveness
The Counter-Cultural Calling
“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.” – Romans 8:28 (NASB)
Here’s a radical thought: What if God is calling us not just to survive coming challenges, but to become suppliers of hope and resources to others during them? Joseph’s preparation didn’t just save his family—it saved nations.
This perspective transforms our approach to preparation from survival to service, from stockpiling to stewardship.
The Future-Focused Faith
“For I know the plans that I have for you,’ declares the LORD, ‘plans for prosperity and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.” – Jeremiah 29:11 (NASB)
Joseph’s story teaches us that true steadfastness isn’t just about maintaining—it’s about becoming. Each circumstance in his life wasn’t just a test to endure but a tool to shape him into someone who could carry the weight of his calling.
Prayer for Steadfast Hearts
Father, give us Joseph’s steadfastness—not just to survive trials or handle success, but to maintain our spiritual equilibrium in both. Help us prepare with wisdom, not fear; to store up resources with generosity, not greed; and to face uncertainty with faith-filled strategy, not anxious stockpiling. Make us channels of Your provision for others in the times ahead. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
“But the one who endures to the end will be saved.” – Matthew 24:13 (NASB)
Remember: The same God who sustained Joseph through slavery, prison, and power is preparing you for your own divine appointments. Your steadfastness today isn’t just about survival—it’s about becoming the person God can trust with both trials and triumph tomorrow.
“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
This Scripture in Proverbs is one of my favorites… Like many people, I’ve read it, reflected on it, and thought I understood it. I really did. Until recently, when God lovingly stripped away my illusions…
Let me share something profound that’s transforming my entire understanding of faith.
I had left a secure financial position, proudly telling everyone I was “stepping out in faith.” My heart was sincere, but my actions? Well, that’s where this story gets interesting – and maybe a bit convicting.
Like those Isaiah warned about who “relied on horses and trusted in chariots” (Isaiah 31:1), I had my own modern-day backup cavalry: retirement plans, financial safety nets, carefully crafted contingency plans. I thought I was being wise. Responsible. Strategic.
Then, in one breath-taking moment, everything changed. Every safety net? Gone. Every backup plan? Shattered. Every security blanket? Stripped away.
But here’s where the beauty begins…
In the midst of what felt like chaos, I discovered something magnificent. Like Peter stepping out of that boat (Matthew 14:29), I found myself in a position where there was nothing – absolutely nothing – between me and God’s faithfulness.
You see, I had been living what I now call “safety net spirituality.” Like Abraham being called to leave his homeland, I thought I was following God’s call. But unlike Abraham who “went, as the LORD had told him” (Genesis 12:4), I had been hedging my bets.
And now? Now I’m experiencing what real faith feels like. Not the comfortable, padded faith I had before, but the kind that makes your heart race and your spirit soar. The kind that actually gives God room to show up in spectacular ways.
This isn’t just about losing backup plans – it’s about gaining something far more precious: authentic trust in a faithful God. It’s about discovering that when Jesus said “No one can serve two masters” (Matthew 6:24), He was offering us freedom, not restriction.
You want to know the most amazing part? As each safety net has fallen away, I’ve found something solid underneath – not the shifting sands of my own planning, but the unshakeable foundation of God’s faithfulness.
I’m learning that true faith isn’t the absence of fear – it’s the presence of trust even when fear is screaming in your ear. It’s not about being reckless; it’s about being real with God and ourselves about where we’re placing our trust.
And here’s what I want to share with you: There’s an indescribable peace that comes when you finally stop trying to be your own backup plan. When you realize that maybe, just maybe, God allowed your safety nets to fall so you could experience His catching arms.
This journey isn’t over. Every day brings new opportunities to choose trust over safety, faith over fear. But now I know – really know – what it means to trust with ALL my heart, not just the parts that don’t have a backup plan.
So I ask you, friend: What safety nets are you clinging to? What would it look like to trust God so completely that you don’t need Plan B?
But here’s the real question that’s been haunting me – the one that changed everything:
Is faith really faith if you’re always developing a backup plan?
After everything I’ve experienced, after watching every safety net dissolve and finding God’s faithfulness even stronger underneath, I can tell you with absolute certainty – no, it’s not.
Real faith, the kind that moves mountains and transforms lives, doesn’t need a Plan B. Because genuine faith understands that God’s Plan A is greater than all our backup plans combined.
So maybe it’s time to let go of those safety nets. Not because it’s easy, but because it’s freeing. Because true faith isn’t faith until it’s all we’re holding onto.
And trust me – when you finally release those backup plans, you’ll discover what I’m learning every day: God is far more faithful than any safety net we could ever design.
A lot of people know that I have been working on preparation for quite a while. I am often asked to share what I am doing (currently) to prepare.
To help me stay focused (and not feel overwhelmed), I keep a working list that I continually update with items I feel are very important in the preparation journey. Of course, I also try to regularly post to this blog – as it enables me to share some insights I have from my journey, and what I feel is impressed upon my heart.
A couple of weeks ago, I posted an article on the progress of some of my family’s efforts to get ready for events that we believe are coming. Every day we work on our list – and involve every member of our family in the process.
Before I share an update on our progress, I found it quite interesting that today on CNN – Glenn Beck published an article that is right in line with this whole notion of preparation. from my perspective, his comments and insights are right on target as he mentions the need to prepare – and not panic. If you are interested, you can View the article here.
Anyway, let me get to my preparation. Let me encourage you to start your own list of things you want to work on to prepare. It will help you stay focused, and feel less stressed about the events that are unfolding.
These are in no particular priority order, and this is not at all my comprehensive list. I have some other items that I’ve prepared – but will not disclose those for security reasons:
My family has developed a fully-stocked heirloom vegetable seed (and seed potatoes) bank. We’re going to be getting some flowers as well.
Have a strong supply of nutrient dense URI products (dehydrated whole-food powder) for nutritional needs. The Feast and Barley Pure are a necessity for my family, and the product has a 2 year shelf life. (more…)
As I’ve shared about the Preparation Call God has given me, I struggled with “why” things are so difficult. It seems that God’s preparation for leadership involves times of long waiting, painful experiences, rejection from people we love, and even isolation.
I often consider Moses, as he was raised as royalty and had everything he could ever want or need. Obviously, he was pretty comfortable in his lifestyle – and I can imagine that he was pretty stable with the way things were going. God had other plans.
To become the leader God wanted, Moses had to be prepared. He had to deal with some pretty difficult changes, and I feel certain he had to understand the concept of Faith beyond wealth and prosperity. If he were going to be able to free a nation, he would need a heart change.
Moses was forced to flee into the desert – completely removed from his comfort zone. He would now have to deal with some very difficult years of preparation.
Moses went from having incredible wealth, to complete and utter devastation. He went from being a prince with all the accolades that went with living in the house of Pharaoh, to being a vagrant in the desert without anyone around. Everything he knew was now destroyed. He was alone, tired, and empty. Now, he had to learn to adjust to his circumstances – and endure an extended time of waiting.
I can only imagine the pain of the waiting, and the impatience he must have felt. I assume he felt he would live out is days in the land of Midian.
We all know the story how God appeared to Moses in a burning bush. It was 40 years from the day he arrived, and now God was able to use Moses to accomplish the assignment. The years of difficulty and discomfort had prepared the vessel to accomplish the work.
I’ve learned that preparation is difficult, but it is vital to season the vessel. It is critical to build character and Faith, and for understanding and wisdom. Do not try to shortcut the desert time of God. Trying to escape the desert will only prolong the journey. Learn what is expected, and be thankful for the Preparation Call that God has given. He has an amazing assignment ahead for those who endure.
