Preparing for Challenges: Trusting God's Faithfulness

Summary

### Summary

In today's message, we explored the importance of preparation and planning, especially in the face of potential calamities. We began by emphasizing the permanence and reliability of God, who is always within reach, even when we feel overwhelmed by our own mistakes and the chaos around us. We are reminded that God has designed each of us with unique gifts and that we are called to be amazing and generous, reflecting His nature.

We then delved into the story of Joseph from the Bible, highlighting how his life, filled with trials and tribulations, was a testament to God's faithfulness and the power of preparation. Despite being sold into slavery and facing numerous challenges, Joseph remained steadfast and used his experiences to prepare for the future. His ability to interpret dreams and manage resources ultimately saved Egypt and surrounding nations during a severe famine.

The message also touched on the current state of our country, drawing parallels between historical events like the Great Depression and the present-day economic and social challenges. We are encouraged to be vigilant and proactive, not out of fear, but out of wisdom and discernment. By preparing ourselves emotionally, mentally, spiritually, and physically, we can be ready to thrive even in difficult times.

We are called to ask the Lord for guidance on how to prepare, whether it be through learning new skills like gardening and canning, or by making practical plans for communication and travel in case of emergencies. The ultimate goal is to be beacons of hope and stability in our communities, ready to help others and share the love of Christ.

### Key Takeaways

1. God's Permanence and Proximity: No matter the storms we face, God's hand is always within reach. Even when we feel we've messed up, His grace is available to us. We must remember that everything else is temporary, but God's presence is permanent and reliable. [28:08]

2. Unique Gifts and Generosity: Each of us is designed with special and unique gifts. We are called to be amazing and generous, reflecting God's nature. Our generosity should flow through us, impacting those around us and advancing God's kingdom. [29:49]

3. The Power of Preparation: Joseph's life teaches us the importance of preparation. Despite his hardships, he used his experiences to save many during a famine. Similarly, we should be proactive in preparing for potential challenges, trusting that God honors our efforts. [45:35]

4. Vigilance in Troubling Times: We must be aware of the current state of our country and the world. By being vigilant and preparing in advance, we can avoid unnecessary suffering and be ready to help others. This includes practical steps like learning new skills and making emergency plans. [56:33]

5. Holistic Preparation: Preparation isn't just physical; it involves emotional, mental, and spiritual readiness. Staying connected to God, loving those in distress, and maintaining mental strength are crucial. This holistic approach ensures we can be beacons of hope and stability in times of crisis. [01:11:41]

### YouTube Chapters

[0:00] - Welcome
[28:08] - God's Permanence and Proximity
[29:49] - Unique Gifts and Generosity
[39:29] - Altar Prayer Team Meeting
[39:55] - Faith Foundation Class
[40:30] - Upcoming 5-Conference
[41:28] - Importance of Preparation
[44:14] - Story of Joseph
[45:35] - Lessons from Joseph's Life
[49:12] - Joseph's Interpretation of Dreams
[53:49] - Pharaoh's Trust in Joseph
[55:29] - Egypt's Prosperity During Famine
[56:33] - Vigilance in Troubling Times
[58:05] - Economic Insights and Preparation
[01:00:54] - Call for Revival and Repentance
[01:04:23] - Practical Steps for Preparation
[01:11:41] - Holistic Preparation
[01:13:28] - Final Call to Action

Study Guide

### Bible Study Discussion Guide

#### Bible Reading
1. Genesis 39:2-4 (NIV)
> "The Lord was with Joseph so that he prospered, and he lived in the house of his Egyptian master. When his master saw that the Lord was with him and that the Lord gave him success in everything he did, Joseph found favor in his eyes and became his attendant. Potiphar put him in charge of his household, and he entrusted to his care everything he owned."

2. Genesis 41:15-16 (NIV)
> "Pharaoh said to Joseph, 'I had a dream, and no one can interpret it. But I have heard it said of you that when you hear a dream you can interpret it.' 'I cannot do it,' Joseph replied to Pharaoh, 'but God will give Pharaoh the answer he desires.'"

3. Proverbs 6:6-8 (NIV)
> "Go to the ant, you sluggard; consider its ways and be wise! It has no commander, no overseer or ruler, yet it stores its provisions in summer and gathers its food at harvest."

#### Observation Questions
1. What were the circumstances that led Joseph to be in charge of Potiphar's household? (Genesis 39:2-4)
2. How did Joseph respond to Pharaoh's request for dream interpretation, and what does this reveal about his character? (Genesis 41:15-16)
3. According to Proverbs 6:6-8, what lesson can we learn from the ant, and how does this relate to the sermon’s emphasis on preparation? ([01:02:22])
4. What are some practical steps mentioned in the sermon that we can take to prepare for potential challenges? ([01:04:43])

#### Interpretation Questions
1. How does Joseph's story illustrate the importance of preparation and reliance on God during difficult times? ([45:35])
2. In what ways does the sermon suggest that we can use our unique gifts and generosity to reflect God's nature? ([29:49])
3. How can the concept of holistic preparation (emotional, mental, spiritual, and physical) help us be beacons of hope in our communities? ([01:11:41])
4. What parallels can be drawn between the vigilance and preparation of Joseph and the current state of our country as discussed in the sermon? ([56:33])

#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you felt overwhelmed by your mistakes or the chaos around you. How did you experience God's permanence and proximity during that time? ([28:08])
2. Identify a unique gift or talent you have. How can you use this gift to be generous and impact those around you this week? ([29:49])
3. What are some specific skills or knowledge you feel led to learn in order to prepare for potential future challenges? How will you go about acquiring these skills? ([01:04:43])
4. How can you incorporate emotional, mental, and spiritual preparation into your daily routine to stay strong and tenacious in times of crisis? ([01:11:41])
5. Think about the current state of your community or country. What practical steps can you take to be vigilant and proactive in helping others during difficult times? ([56:33])
6. How can you create a communication and travel plan for your family in case of emergencies? What are the first steps you will take to implement this plan? ([01:14:38])
7. Consider the idea of being a beacon of hope and stability. What actions can you take this week to share the love of Christ with someone in distress? ([01:11:41])

Devotional

Day 1: God's Unchanging Presence
God's Permanence and Proximity: No matter the storms we face, God's hand is always within reach. Even when we feel we've messed up, His grace is available to us. We must remember that everything else is temporary, but God's presence is permanent and reliable. [28:08]

In the midst of life's chaos and our own mistakes, it is easy to feel distant from God. However, the truth is that God is always near, offering His unwavering presence and grace. His permanence is a source of comfort and stability, reminding us that while everything else in life may change, He remains the same. This assurance allows us to navigate through our challenges with confidence, knowing that we are never alone.

God's proximity means that we can always reach out to Him, no matter our circumstances. His grace is sufficient to cover our failures and guide us back to His path. By focusing on His unchanging nature, we can find peace and strength to face any situation, trusting that He is always with us.

Psalm 46:1-2 (ESV): "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way, though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea."

Reflection: Think of a recent situation where you felt overwhelmed. How can you remind yourself of God's unchanging presence and grace in similar future situations?

Day 2: Reflecting God's Generosity
Unique Gifts and Generosity: Each of us is designed with special and unique gifts. We are called to be amazing and generous, reflecting God's nature. Our generosity should flow through us, impacting those around us and advancing God's kingdom. [29:49]

God has endowed each of us with unique talents and abilities, designed to reflect His nature and serve His purposes. These gifts are not just for our benefit but are meant to be shared generously with others. When we use our gifts to bless those around us, we become conduits of God's love and grace, advancing His kingdom on earth.

Generosity is a powerful expression of God's character. By being generous with our time, resources, and talents, we mirror the abundant generosity of our Creator. This not only impacts the lives of those we help but also strengthens our own faith and deepens our relationship with God. Embracing our unique gifts and using them generously is a vital part of our spiritual journey.

1 Peter 4:10 (ESV): "As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace."

Reflection: Identify one unique gift you have. How can you use this gift to serve someone in your community this week?

Day 3: The Importance of Preparation
The Power of Preparation: Joseph's life teaches us the importance of preparation. Despite his hardships, he used his experiences to save many during a famine. Similarly, we should be proactive in preparing for potential challenges, trusting that God honors our efforts. [45:35]

The story of Joseph is a powerful testament to the importance of preparation. Despite facing numerous trials, including being sold into slavery and unjustly imprisoned, Joseph remained faithful and used his experiences to prepare for the future. His ability to interpret dreams and manage resources ultimately saved Egypt and surrounding nations during a severe famine.

Joseph's life teaches us that preparation is not just about anticipating challenges but also about trusting in God's plan and using our experiences to grow and serve others. By being proactive and diligent, we can be ready to face difficulties and help those around us. God honors our efforts and uses them to fulfill His purposes.

Proverbs 21:5 (ESV): "The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty."

Reflection: What is one area of your life where you can be more proactive in preparation? How can you start taking steps today to be better prepared for future challenges?

Day 4: Staying Vigilant in Troubling Times
Vigilance in Troubling Times: We must be aware of the current state of our country and the world. By being vigilant and preparing in advance, we can avoid unnecessary suffering and be ready to help others. This includes practical steps like learning new skills and making emergency plans. [56:33]

In times of uncertainty and turmoil, it is crucial to stay vigilant and aware of the world around us. By understanding the current state of our country and the global situation, we can take proactive steps to prepare for potential challenges. This vigilance is not driven by fear but by wisdom and discernment, allowing us to avoid unnecessary suffering and be ready to assist others in need.

Practical preparation involves learning new skills, such as gardening or canning, and making emergency plans for communication and travel. These steps ensure that we are not only ready to face difficulties ourselves but also equipped to help our communities. By being vigilant and prepared, we can be beacons of hope and stability in troubling times.

Proverbs 22:3 (ESV): "The prudent sees danger and hides himself, but the simple go on and suffer for it."

Reflection: What is one practical skill you can learn or improve to better prepare for potential challenges? How can you start incorporating this skill into your routine?

Day 5: Holistic Preparation
Holistic Preparation: Preparation isn't just physical; it involves emotional, mental, and spiritual readiness. Staying connected to God, loving those in distress, and maintaining mental strength are crucial. This holistic approach ensures we can be beacons of hope and stability in times of crisis. [01:11:41]

True preparation goes beyond physical readiness; it encompasses emotional, mental, and spiritual aspects as well. Staying connected to God through prayer, worship, and scripture is essential for maintaining spiritual strength. This connection provides the foundation for loving and supporting those in distress, offering them hope and stability.

Emotional and mental readiness involves cultivating resilience and a positive mindset. By focusing on God's promises and surrounding ourselves with a supportive community, we can maintain mental strength even in challenging times. This holistic approach to preparation ensures that we are well-equipped to face crises and be sources of encouragement and stability for others.

Ephesians 6:10-11 (ESV): "Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil."

Reflection: How can you strengthen your spiritual, emotional, and mental readiness today? What specific steps can you take to ensure you are holistically prepared for future challenges?

Quotes

1. "You know when you encounter the living God, you know that you can hang on them. Storms come, storms come, shaky waters come, but you know when you encounter, with the living God, that he is living, permanent, permanent, everything else is temporary, everything else is permanent in our lives, all we have to do is hang on, all we have is hang on, if you let go, if let go, his hand is still there, his hand is for you to grab, it is within reach, it is reach, it is within reach." [28:08] (39 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

2. "We know that when we create an environment for people to encounter Christ, and when we empower them to advance the kingdom, we can live to be all that God designed them to be, because he designed each and every one of us, and here, everyone of us is amazing, amazing, my daughter, I love you, don't choose anybody, she had a shirt, that my stepmom's shirt, be amazing today, I love that shirt, I love that shirt, I think I kept it." [28:08] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

3. "He designed us, you guys, he is amazing, amazing, he doesn't create he doesn't create royalty, we have special and unique gifts, special and unique gifts that he put inside of us, he put inside of us, because we're amazing, we're amazing, so be amazing, today, so be amazing, today, be amazing, today, you're so generous, God, you're so generous, generous to us, you're so generous through us, you're so generous through us, you give us everything that ever need, and we thank you for it, because you will, we thank you for all of our needs, of course, to your, of our needs, that is what your word says." [29:49] (37 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

4. "Joseph knew where his mind was going to interpret, and his mind was going to interpret all of our gifts and talents and anointings and talents and anointings, it has nothing to do with us, he gives us things, we can be totally anointed, we can be totally anointed, he gives us those things, he gives us practice and become better, practice and become better, right?" [53:49] (19 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

5. "We better be prepared for calamity. We better be prepared to thrive. We better be prepared to thrive, because we can. Because we can. probably should learn how to garden. You probably should learn how to fruit. So, your own food, you might want to learn. You might want to learn roads, so you and your kids. So, you and your kids can get around without a GPS. You might want to have extra gasoline on hand." [01:04:43] (25 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

6. "We can be prepared to thrive. We can be prepared to thrive. We can be prepared to thrive. Shaking is how people thrive. Shaking is how people awaken from their slumber and we cast out apathy of the night. People will awaken... so learning how to garden, can, how to grow your own food could prove very helpful in addition learning how to get our own securos, communication plans, all that stuff, nutrition plans, all that stuff." [01:07:18] (37 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

7. "We don't have to follow the crowd. The church is not meant to follow the crowd. The church is meant to follow the church. There's going to be a lot of people panicking and freaking out. And probably some Christians. Probably some Christians. We don't have to be them. We don't have to be them. We can be cool, calm, and collected. My family is taken care of. My family is taken care of. They're going to be taken care of. They're going to be taken care of." [01:12:51] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

8. "It's our job. Nobody else is going to do it for us. Tomorrow will not come. It's today. It's today. It's today. Start learning. Start planning. Start asking the Lord. Ask the Lord what he would have you do. Ask the Lord what he would have you do. How much food should I set aside, Lord? What kind of food should I set aside, Lord? How do I garden, God? How do I garden, God? What's the one crop to grow in this area?" [01:13:28] (24 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

9. "Because Jesus is alive. Because Jesus is alive. And of all of it. Through all. The only way for us to be beacons. The only way for us to be beacons. The great one. You need to prepare for this. Get ready now. Get ready now. Not tomorrow. Not tomorrow. Now. Be prepared now. If you are investors, consider repositioning your investment." [01:14:19] (20 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

10. "I'm not in fear. I'm fear. I know God will take care of me. I know take care of me. Because I know that we're planning. Because we're preparing. And all of you need to also. And all of you need to also. Watch, this is what it is. It's just as we think this election is going to go off, this election is going to go off. Watch your mind. It's not. People are angry. People are divided. People are angry. People are divided." [01:16:29] (20 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

Chatbot

Transcript

What was the most surprising thing in this sermon?

Were there any personal stories shared?