Practical Preppers

There was a TV show a few years ago that was very popular; it was called “Preppers”. It was about people who were preparing for some kind of a disaster whether from natural causes or some other means. Most of them seemed to be getting ready for doomsday or end times.  They were stockpiling food, guns, ammunition, and they became as self- sufficient as they could be. They were prepared for just about anything.

So, what about us as Christians; is it wrong for us to be prepared and make plans in case

something might happen? If we make preparations does that show that we are not trusting in God? There is absolutely nothing sinful in making practical preparations for emergencies. Whether you could be threatened by an earthquake, hurricane or any other kind of disaster, it is wise to have preparations made in advance. Let’s take a lesson from Jesus.  He was teaching and healing people and as a result a great multitude of people were following Him.  Jesus made this statement in Mark 3:9, “So He told His disciples that a small boat should be kept ready for Him because of the multitude, lest they should crush Him.” That is making a practical preparation in advance. Jesus knew what would happen but I see that as a lesson for us in being practical Christians. We need to have certain things ready in case we need them.

When Jesus first sent our His disciples, He told them not to take anything with them. They were not to take any money, food, or extra clothing; Jesus would provide for them through the people they ministered to. However, when He sent them out towards the end of His earthly life He told them in Luke 22:36, “But now, he who has a money bag, let him take it, and likewise a knapsack; and he who has no sword, let him sell his garment and buy one.” That again is practical preparation in advance.

But the caution for us is not to get carried away and move from practical preparation to profuse preparation. We don’t want to start stockpiling all of the things we think we may need where we actually start thinking we will never have enough. We then start making our treasure here on earth. Jesus warned of that when He said, “where your treasure is there will your heart be also.” May we be practical preparers not profuse preppers.

Pastor Marty