Being Unprepared

Being unprepared can be frustrating and embarrassing. It can turn an ordinary day into a bad one very quickly. Too many unprepared days usually lead to an overwhelmed life, and getting by consumes any best that might otherwise exist.

A habit of unpreparedness eventually creates a reactionary, drama-filled life. That sort of life comes characterized by relentless stress and exhausting overwhelm.

The Value of Preparedness

Being prepared is a habit that sets you up for an effective and successful life. Vastly more important, though, is knowing the concept of preparedness as it relates to your spiritual state. Your heavenly Father also values being prepared and wants you to always stand ready.

Matthew 24 conveys God’s preparedness message aptly. In it, we have Jesus’ words telling us to not panic and to instead prepare to endure to the end. The idea of panic and endurance tells us the situation will be dire and feel desperate at times.

Jesus also tells us what to pay attention to and what not to let steal our focus. In that, he directs us to:

  • Know the Truth
  • Know what’s coming
  • Know what you don’t know
  • Know your responsibility

This chapter in Matthew ends with a call to preparedness, too.

“You also must be ready all the time, for the Son of Man will come when least expected.” (Matthew 24:44)

Jesus gave us what we need to be prepared and called us to a continual state of preparedness.

A Habit of Preparedness

Living with a habit of preparedness based on the information you have creates the mindset necessary to be ready for the event of all time — Jesus’ return. A habit of preparedness creates a way of thinking that flows into every area of their lives, from the small events to the big ones later in life. Most importantly, it gives us the mindset to prepare in the only way that truly — eternally — matters, relationship with the Savior.

Seeing the connection of everyday habits to our eternal perspective helps us better see the truth in how all we do can truly be to his glory.

“So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” (1 Corinthians 10:31)

Preparedness is, for me, one of the most powerful examples of this principle.