Preparation is Key

Preparation is key, whether we are trying to get dinner on the table in a timely manner, going on a trip, and living in victory with Christ. God’s Word tells the Christian to expect trials, temptations, and tests. We live in a fallen world and the daily burden of remaining sin is a reality for any Christian. In recent months, Glory Project missionaries have faced increasing persecution due to their faith. Many have been threated to put in jail, physically beaten, forced to pay an unnecessary fee, and in some cases threated for their lives. In order for our missionaries to remain bold in their witness for Christ, they must remain in a state of preparedness.
1 Cor. 10:13 is a comfort to many Christians, including our missionaries, in times of temptation and trial. It says God, “will provide a way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.” Most often than not the “way of escape” God brings is found internally, not externally. The “way of escape” is discovered only when you daily abide in Christ. Preparing for the trial, test, or temptation means that you continue to learn how to grow in your relationship with Christ. I have personally been reminded of this in recent months as Glory Project continues to expand in Asia. More demands are made of me from our missionaries, staff, and ministry partners. If I do not first seek God and His righteousness (Matt. 6:33) than I will be unable to serve from a place of strength. The “way of escape” is found when I pursue Christ first every day and in every situation. When I abide with Christ in prayer and the study of God’s Word then I can serve from a place of abundance. The promise I cling to is that when I remain Christ then I have everything I need to live in godliness and lead in humility.
“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing” (John 15:5).