Hosanna Restoration Church

For many years I have been a pretty avid runner. It seems that my speed has changed but I still keep at it. In the past, I have pretty much been able to just put on my shoes and take off, but this year I have noticed that stretching helps keep me from some new pains. The other day however it was hot out and I love to run in the heat, so I took off. My legs felt great and I ran a little harder than I should have. Consequently a couple miles into the run I had some pains that I did not like. As I stopped to do some stretching the Lord spoke the word, “Prepare” to me. For a long time I got away without the proper preparation, but now I needed to prepare before I ran.

Of course, God was not speaking just about running. He was telling me to prepare. He was speaking of how important preparation is in our spiritual walk. My life before I came to know Christ was all a preparation. Everything that took place ultimately prepared me for what I am doing now. There were certainly many things that were not pleasing to God, but still they helped prepare me. Fortunately they did not destroy me before I moved into the will of God.

We also need to prepare ourselves to receive the Word of God. Our preparation is in our study of His word, our time of prayer and communication with Him, and all this builds our faith. There is also preparation involved in putting the gospel to work. Our lives prepare others to receive Christ. The way we walk and talk and the way we love others prepares a way.

The question is are we prepared? Do we care enough to prepare. Each day requires preparation. I don’t know about you, but I need to prepare in order to be the way God intends me to be in my own home. I need to pray and ask God to help me to be the head of my household. I need His help so I will love and have the wisdom that I need. To be honest, I have not prepared like I should for that. For a long time God just led me and I got by, but now I am convicted that I need more preparation.

We are all in a battle for the souls of multitudes and we need to be prepared to fight. The enemy wants to destroy us and so we need to be prepared to do battle. I am not talking about a bunch of works or a heavy yoke here, I am simply talking about caring enough and being aware enough so that we will recognize the need to prepare.

Being built up in our faith is preparation for doing the things of the kingdom. Walking in love prepares others for the Lord to come into their lives. God will help us to prepare the way for health, protection, provision, and every other thing that is necessary in order to know the fullness of our salvation. So be prepared for God to pour out His blessings on you as you prepare to be a vessel in His hands.