by Joseph | Feb 8, 2012 | Preparation, Sharing
Doomsday Survival has become quite a popular topic with today’s media and politicians. It is a telling sign that more and more people are concerned with events that are happening all across the globe.
Unfortunately, the concerns that people face are often fueled by the media in the form of fear. News outlets and others often sensationalize events that are happening, in order to boost their following. Regrettably, fear has proven to be a powerful agent in driving revenues. The internet has made information immediately available so it has become very easy to follow events all over the world. I suspect if the internet was available during the great World Wars or during the global depression, there likely would have been an even greater movement of people preparing for the ultimate destruction of society.
Certainly, (more than ever, in fact) I believe we all need to prepare, but I really do not believe that preparation should be a reaction to fear. I personally am not interested in perpetuating fear or pushing a message simply to help drive revenues.
Today, “Preppers” is a popular name that is used to identify those who are somewhat involved in some type of preparation act. I am not a big fan of the term Preppers, but I do understand the attempt to identify people who are a part of the preparation journey. I have just never particularly appreciated how we have grown so accustomed to classifying people into categories, or sub-categories. Our history is littered by too many terrible acts against people who were visibly identified, labeled, and branded as they were placed as a member of a certain group.
To me, preparation is not about fitting within a certain society niche or group. Preparation is a journey, and a movement. It is a community of people taking action and often coming together to prepare themselves for living – regardless of the circumstances they may face. In my Faith, preparation is not particularly about special survival skills in a doomsday scenario, but far more about being ready and prepared for the soon return of the King of Kings. It is about having oil in the lamps awaiting the Bridegroom.
It is ultimately pointless for me to rant about a simple term used for identification. I am fine with anyone who wants to call themselves a Prepper, survivalist, hoarder, or whatever. Over 18 years ago I heard a Preparation Call that has impacted my life in a profound way. My desire is to remain faithful on the journey of that call, and to prepare my family and others for the difficulties and joys that lie ahead.
Doomsday Preppers
Doomsday Preppers is a new show on the National Geographic Channel. The show follows the lives of Americans who are preparing for the end of the world as we know it. Unique in their beliefs, motivations, and strategies, preppers will go to whatever lengths they can to make sure they are prepared for any of life’s uncertainties. And with our expert’s assessment, they will find out their chances of survival if their worst fears become a reality.
by Joseph | Jan 10, 2012 | Preparation, Sharing
I have such an incredible family. My wife and children have been such an inspiration and support.
My oldest daughter shared this with me, and it is so pertinent to the Preparation Call and to the theme of this site. I hope you enjoy…
Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good, to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and always to be gentle toward everyone. Titus 3:1-2
This is such a spectacular verse! You may not be a Christian or of the same beliefs, but there’s no denying that the above verse can be applied to everyone’s life. It just isn’t something we always want to hear, is it? Especially in the heat of a moment or time of frustration or those periods when you want to just isolate yourselves and take care of your own. But take a moment to really let that sentence sink in.
I find that the section in particular that sums up the entire verse is “to be ready to do whatever is good”. To be ready! That’s another way of saying ‘prepare’. Everyone should be ready to do whatever is good, not only in the easy times, but more so in the difficult times. To be considerate, peaceable and gentle toward everyone!
As you take this journey and are preparing, you cannot neglect your heart. Preparation is a process that should go deeper than solely learning which alternative shelter to choose or how to store enough food. This is a journey that takes heart and you cannot lose a grip on your foundation. Yes, learn all that you can and prepare in the physical and external sense of the word. Yet always remember that external circumstances can quickly shift. Put your hope in the living God and not in how well you prepare. So that then you can be ready to do whatever is good even in the most difficult moments.
by Joseph | Oct 10, 2011 | Preparation, Sharing
So, What is Hyperinflation?
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.
by Joseph | Oct 8, 2011 | 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 | Oct 1, 2011 | Preparation, Sharing
Arise and shine for the light has come, and the glory of the Lord is risen upon thee. Isaiah 60:1
Today, we want to share a devotion we received and hope it will give you encouragement. It is time to Rise Up! It is time to set aside fear! It is time to move forward with boldness and courage!
Times are very tough, and fear is impacting in a lot of lives. We are beginning to see the challenging times that we have been preparing for. God hasn’t just prepared us to store food so we can eat during a global food shortage. We have been called for a purpose. We are to be overcomers, untouched by recession and all that we read or hear in the news. God holds our future and we are safe and secure in the palm of His hand.
It is time to step-it-up-a-notch and move to a higher place and take a higher position. When a solider has been hurt and wounded in battle, he may be slumped over and walk with a limp. However, after a time of rest and recovery, he can walk straight and stand up tall. The Lord is calling us to rise up and stand tall.
We are living in challenging times and what used to work, doesn’t work anymore. For instance, there was a time you could put ten dollars worth of gas in your car and drive all day. Those days are over and so is casual Christianity. You can’t go very far on ten dollars; it takes $80 to fill my tank and it takes more to fill my spirit. A ten minute prayer time or a ten minute time in the Word will not work.
I believe we are living in a time when we must know God and His Word like never before. You must know who you are and realize the authority God has given you as His child. You are a citizen of the Kingdom, a joint heir with Jesus Christ, and therefore you should be living by a higher standard. The kingdom of God is at hand. He has put His Word in our heart and He expects us to use His Word to speak life into dead things, and hope into hopeless people. This is a time to arise and shine for the light has come.
Encourage those who have fear. Share the Good News of a loving God who has offered His Grace and Mercy, and will never leave us or forsake us!
by Joseph | Sep 22, 2011 | Preparation, Sharing
I’ve shared on this blog, that I believe we are headed for great difficulties. It is important that we prepare for the chaos that will impact our lives.
Many who are now engaged in the “Prepper” movement, are pushing action based on fear. That fear is significantly adding to the problems, and creating all sorts of conspiracies. It seems that everywhere you go now, you can hear someone speaking about some outlandish conspiracy theory. The worst part is, the conspiracies and fear grow exponentially. The fear captures many people, destroys hope, and ultimately becomes bondage. Society becomes unstable, which obviously, will create more need for preparation.
So, with difficulties surrounding us from every side what can we do? I mean, there are wars and rumors of wars, famines, and earthquakes in various places – and that’s just the beginning. It seems that all over the planet, you hear of devastation. For many people there seems to be nowhere to turn.
I’ve often thought about the scenarios that we face, and wonder to myself : Where can I go to be safe? I’ve thought about underground, heading into seclusion, and even other Countries. The reality is, there is potential difficulty with any place you go.
Some who are reading this article will be frustrated with my ultimate resolution, but it’s the only safe place that I can offer with absolute certainty. The only place that I know of where you can have safe refuge, is in God. He will never leave us or forsake us.
“It is better to trust and take refuge in the Lord than to put confidence in man.” Psalm 118:8
God is your refuge. He is the only one who knows the answer to your present difficulties and fears. Take refuge in Him and the answer will quickly come on how you should prepare.
In the refuge of the Lord, the enemy cannot touch you, taunt you, or discourage you. You are safe under the shadow of His wings. Find the secret place every day. There you can find rest for your soul and strength to overcome the trials of these difficult days.
Psalm 112:7, “He shall not be afraid of evil tidings, his heart is firmly fixed.”
