Recently, the hibiscus plant that I have in my dining room had a bloom pop out. I wasn’t sure if this gorgeous plant would make it through the winter, but I followed the wisdom of my gardening expert friend, and voila!
Each week, I would water it and prune it, ensuring it got plenty of sun. I have to admit, there were many days when I did not want to take care of it. It was slightly time consuming and frankly, I had other priorities.
Yet, when I saw the beautiful flower, I knew it was all worth it. Because of the TLC it has received over the winter months, I’ll be able to enjoy it throughout the spring and summer.
Preparation time for most everything in life can be challenging. Studying for an exam or getting a meal ready for guests can be arduous, even overwhelming. At times, we may even feel ill-equipped for the task at hand.
“Fear not, for I am with you; Be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.’” (Isaiah 41:10 NKJV)
The disciples of Jesus spent three plus years in preparation for the day He would no longer be with them in the flesh. But they were not prepared for what they would see on Golgotha on that Good Friday 2000 years ago.
Likewise, they were also not prepared for the empty tomb on Easter Sunday! We do our best to prepare for things, but sometimes life throws us a curveball. And when it does, it is when all of our preparation pays off.
Many years ago, I began reading the Bible. I didn’t understand it all but I felt a sense of peace every time I read it. When I wanted to know more, I attended Bible College and then weekly Bible studies and services. Over the years, more and more of God’s truth and wisdom has made its way into my spirit.
Today, when life wants to go ballistic on me, I can turn to God’s Word and speak truth about my situation. I can speak life over my loved ones. I can encourage people when they feel overwhelmed or burdened. God, in His infinite wisdom knew all those years ago, that I would need to be prepared for a time such as this (Esther 4:14).
Today, I am stronger than ever, knowing that God is on my side and that my prayers are heard and will be answered. Today, I’m putting into practice everything I have learned and prepared for, and doing what God has called me to do.
Life is all about preparation. Whether it’s for an immediate need or something in the future that we cannot know. It may not always be smooth sailing, but preparation time is always worth it because we will have the victory over our situations.
“Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.” (Romans 8:37 NKJV)
What do you need to prepare for? A new season? A new job? I want to encourage you to use your preparation time wisely. Have a good attitude, surround yourself with people who will support and pray with you, lean into God and trust that He will be with you throughout the preparation process.
“And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.” (Galatians 6:9 NKJV)
And if you stick with it and don’t give up, there will be a beautiful bloom waiting for you.