Practical Preparation… “Early in the morning David left the flock with a shepherd, loaded up and set out…” 1 Samuel 17:20 a, “Your servant has killed both the lion and the bear… The Lord who delivered me from the paw of the lion and the paw of the bear will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine…” 1 Samuel 17:32 a
What you do today determines who you are tomorrow. Your present job may be at the bottom of the totem pole. That’s ok, be the very best at your place in the ‘pecking order’, for your excellent work will not go unnoticed. Moreover, the needs at home can be overwhelming, but do not stop instilling into the tender heart of your children, God’s truth. Your daily investment in your children prepares them for life, work and liberty.
God’s Word does not return void, so continue to sow His word into the lives of those around you. Like a patient farmer, in due time you will see a harvest of righteousness. Maybe your preparation is in education. Yes, what seems to be an irrelevant reading assignment is teaching you discipline. You study and comprehend information that is not immediately helpful, but by staying in the process you learn perseverance and determination.
However, your most important preparation is your relationship with God. What may seem like a slower pace of life is God’s invitation to get to know Him. Pray more during this parenthesis in your life; take advantage of this time to know God. You will develop an intimacy with the Almighty over time. Use this pause in your life to go deep with Him in your character development. Your character is and will always be your greatest preparation.
You are learning to be thorough in your work and to do what you say you will do. Your word is your bond. Learn character in the bivouacs of life and you may have the opportunity to stand before kings. At least you will be ready for God’s best and eventually be prepared to stand before King Jesus. Stay in the preparation process, always learning, for He is preparing you for something unique and special for His glory.
“Do you see a man skilled in his work? He will serve before kings; he will not serve before obscure men” (Proverbs 22:29).
Am I focused on preparation for my next assignment? Am I thoroughly prepared?
Related Readings: 1 Chronicles 22:5; Proverbs 24:27; Luke 10:40; John 19:42
Transformational Living
What did I learn from the Lord in today’s Bible reading? How will I respond?
