The Spirituality of Preparation

Below are excerpts from Pastor Stuart's daily scripture meditations. Click the title of the excerpt to read the full article. To receive these articles in your email inbox, please click the link at the top of the page to subscribe.

Are You Prepared? | September 27, 2017
We have been discussing some of the very practical aspects of life lately, like our diet, health, and sleep. It was mentioned in our gathering on Sunday, that there are other things in our lives that we should also pay attention to, especially in light of the hurricanes and earthquakes in the news. As I took a straw poll on Sunday, not many are ready for a disaster that would have the power out for a week or more. As with all things, wisdom is not only directed for our own benefit but also that we would be a light to our neighbors if the inevitable occurs. 

A prudent person foresees the danger ahead and takes precautions. The simpleton goes blindly on and suffers the consequences.
Proverbs 27:12 (NLT)

The Other Side Of Preparation | September 28, 2017
Yesterday, we looked at being prepared for the inevitable circumstances that are a part of a life on this earth and looking ahead to ensure that we are able to be a light in the darkness when the darkness falls upon us. Today, I have another encouragement, yet from the other side.

When we "see the people" as Jesus did, the transformed heart is filled with compassion and desires to participate in alleviating the suffering. There are three ways that are always available to us.

Seeing the people, He felt compassion for them, because they were distressed and dispirited like sheep without a shepherd.
Matthew 9:36 (NASB)