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PREPARED TO MULTIPLY

“What Are You Doing With What God Gave You?”

Main Text: Matthew 25:14–30
Key Verse: Matthew 25:21
Theme: Preparation

Matthew 25:21 (KJV)
“His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.”

Central Thought

God does not only want us to preserve what He has placed in our hands. He wants us to faithfully use, develop, and multiply it for His glory.

INTRODUCTION — GOD EXPECTS GROWTH

Church, when God puts something in your hands, what does He expect you to do with it?

Does He expect you simply to hold it?

Does He expect you to hide it?

Does He expect you to compare it with what He gave somebody else?

Or does God expect us to use it?

Everything that has the capacity for life has the potential for growth.

You can hold one apple in your hand, but inside that apple are seeds.

You can count the seeds inside an apple, but you cannot easily count how many future apples could come from those seeds.

Why?

Because God put multiplication potential inside the seed.

But here's the problem:

A SEED CANNOT MULTIPLY WHILE IT REMAINS IN YOUR HAND.

It has to be planted.

It has to enter the soil.

It has to be watered.

It needs time.

It needs development.

And eventually what looked like something small can produce something much greater.

This is what Jesus teaches us in Matthew 25.

A master was preparing to leave on a journey.

Before leaving, he called three servants.

To one he gave five talents.

To another he gave two talents.

To another he gave one talent.

And then he left.

When he returned:

The five had become ten.

The two had become four.

But the one...

was still one.

One servant multiplied five.

Another multiplied two.

But the third servant buried what he received.

And this raises a question for all of us:

“WHAT IS HAPPENING TO WHAT GOD PUT IN YOUR HANDS?”

Are you developing it?

Are you using it?

Are you investing it?

Are you sharing it?

Or have you buried it?

Today I want to preach:

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“DON’T WAIT UNTIL WINTER”

Learning Preparation from God’s Creation

Main Text: Proverbs 6:6–8 (KJV)

“Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise:
Which having no guide, overseer, or ruler,
Provideth her meat in the smmer, and gathereth her food in the harvest.”

Supporting Text: Proverbs 30:24–28

Central Thought

God has placed lessons about preparation all around us. The ant gathers before winter, animals prepare before difficult seasons, farmers plant before harvest, and wise people prepare before the need arrives.

INTRODUCTION — GOD’S CREATION CAN TEACH US

Sometimes we think the only way God teaches us is through a sermon.

But God can teach us through what He created.

Jesus said, “Consider the lilies.”

He told His disciples to “Behold the fowls of the air.”

Solomon tells us:

“GO TO THE ANT!”

In other words:

“If you want to learn something about preparation, get down low enough to watch an ant!”

Imagine that.

God created human beings with intelligence, education, technology, computers, calendars, alarm clocks, weather forecasts and financial planners—

yet God says:

“There's something an ant can teach you.”

The ant doesn't have a refrigerator.

The ant doesn't have a grocery store.

The ant doesn't receive a weather forecast.

Yet when food is available, the colony gathers and stores resources for times when food will be harder to obtain.

Why?

Because wisdom says:

“DON’T WAIT UNTIL WINTER TO START PREPARING FOR WINTER.”

And that's my message today.

Somebody is living in summer right now.

Everything is going well.

You're healthy.

You have income.

Your family is doing well.

You have opportunities.

But summer doesn't last forever.

There are seasons in life.

And wise people use today's opportunities to prepare for tomorrow's possibilities.

1. THE ANT TEACHES US — PREPARE BEFORE THE NEED ARRIVES

Proverbs 6:8

“Provideth her meat in the summer, and gathereth her food in the harvest.”

The ant doesn't wait until food becomes scarce to begin gathering.

It works while opportunity is available.

That's preparation.

The Spiritual Lesson

Don't wait until you're in trouble to learn how to pray.

Don't wait until your marriage is struggling to start communicating.

Don't wait until your children are grown to start spending time with them.

Don't wait until you're financially struggling to learn stewardship.

Don't wait until Sunday morning to start preparing Sunday's message.

Don't wait until temptation comes to learn God's Word.

Don't wait until you're sick to appreciate your health.

“Wisdom doesn't merely respond to today's need; wisdom prepares for tomorrow's possibility.”

2. THE BEAR TEACHES US — SOME SEASONS REQUIRE PREPARATION

A bear is another interesting illustration, though its biology differs from the ant.

Before winter, many bears enter hyperphagia, a period of greatly increased eating. They build fat reserves that sustain them during winter denning, when their metabolism slows dramatically and they may go months without normal eating and drinking.

The bear doesn't wait until winter arrives to build those reserves.

Preparation happens before the difficult season.

Spiritual Application

There will be seasons when you need spiritual reserves.

That's why you need God's Word now.

That's why you need prayer now.

That's why you need worship now.

That's why you need fellowship now.

David said:

Psalm 119:11 (KJV)

“Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.”

Notice:

“HID IN MINE HEART.”

David stored something!

“You need to store some Word in your heart during summer because winter may require you to live on what you've stored.”

Sometimes in crisis you don't have time to search for a Scripture.

You need one already inside you.

3. THE SQUIRREL TEACHES US — STORE SOMETHING FOR LATER

Many squirrels cache nuts and seeds in different locations for later use.

They gather while food is plentiful because food availability changes with the seasons.

Spiritual Lesson

Everything God gives us isn't necessarily meant to be consumed immediately.

Joseph understood this.

Genesis 41:48–49 (KJV)

“And he gathered up all the food of the seven years, which were in the land of Egypt, and laid up the food in the cities…”

God gave Egypt seven years of abundance before seven years of famine.

Joseph understood:

Abundance was preparation for adversity.

Application

When God gives you more, don't automatically increase your consumption.

Save something.

Invest something.

Give something.

Prepare something.

Learn something.

“Sometimes God's extra isn't for you to spend—it may be provision for a season you haven't reached yet.”

4. BIRDS TEACH US — KNOW WHEN IT'S TIME TO MOVE

Many migratory birds respond to seasonal changes by traveling enormous distances to areas where food and environmental conditions are more favorable.

They don't wait until conditions become impossible.

Preparation includes responding to the season.

Ecclesiastes 3:1 (KJV)

“To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven:”

Some people remain in places spiritually, emotionally, or practically after God has told them:

“It's time to move forward.”

Abraham had to leave.

Israel had to leave Egypt.

Joshua had to cross Jordan.

The disciples had to leave the upper room after receiving power and take the gospel outward.

“Preparation isn't always storing something. Sometimes preparation means knowing when it's time to move.”

5. THE FARMER TEACHES US — PREPARATION REQUIRES WORK BEFORE RESULTS

A farmer doesn't walk into an empty field at harvest time and say:

“Lord, where is my corn?”

There was work required beforehand.

The ground had to be prepared.

Seed had to be planted.

The crop had to be tended.

And then there was waiting.

James 5:7 (KJV)

“Behold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long patience for it…”

This teaches us something important:

PREPARATION AND PATIENCE WORK TOGETHER.

You prepare.

Then you wait.

You plant.

Then you wait.

You pray.

Then you wait.

You study.

Then you wait.

You obey.

Then you wait.

“Don't dig up tomorrow's harvest because you're impatient with today's seed.”

6. THE EAGLE TEACHES US — PREPARATION INCLUDES TRAINING

Young birds do not begin life with mature flight ability. They develop strength and coordination before becoming competent flyers.

That gives us a beautiful picture.

Before you can handle certain heights, you need development.

Isaiah 40:31 (KJV)

“But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles…”

Sometimes we're praying:

“God, take me higher!”

And God may be saying:

“I'm strengthening your wings.”

You want the height.

God is concerned about whether you can handle the altitude.

“Don't despise the training season. God may be strengthening your wings for where He's taking you.”

7. THE HONEYBEE TEACHES US — PREPARATION REQUIRES TEAMWORK

Honeybees provide another wonderful lesson.

A colony survives because different bees perform different tasks.

Some forage.

Some care for developing young.

Some maintain the hive.

Some help regulate its temperature.

The colony stores honey that can help sustain it when flowers are unavailable.

No single bee does everything.

1 Corinthians 12:20–21 (KJV)

“But now are they many members, yet but one body. And the eye cannot say unto the hand, I have no need of thee…”

There's a church lesson here.

The pastor can't do everything.

The deacons can't do everything.

The trustees can't do everything.

The praise team can't do everything.

The teachers can't do everything.

WE NEED EACH OTHER.

“Preparation becomes stronger when everybody does their part.”

8. THE SPIDER TEACHES US — USE WHAT GOD PUT IN YOU

This one comes directly from Proverbs.

Proverbs 30:28 (KJV)

“The spider taketh hold with her hands, and is in kings' palaces.”

A tiny creature can find itself in a king's palace.

It doesn't have great physical strength.

But it uses what God gave it.

Application

Stop saying:

“I don't have what they have.”

Maybe you don't need what they have.

Moses had a rod.

David had a sling.

Samson had unusual strength.

Dorcas had a needle and used her

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Preparation Comes Before Manifestation

Main Scripture — Proverbs 24:27 (KJV)

“Prepare thy work without and make it fit for thyself in the field; and afterwards build thine house.”

There are many things in life that require preparation.

Before a farmer expects a harvest, he prepares the soil.

Before a student takes an examination, he prepares by studying.

Before an athlete enters competition, he prepares by training.

Before a builder puts up a house, there must be plans and a foundation.

Before a preacher stands to preach, there should be prayer, study, and preparation.

Even Jesus taught us the importance of preparation.

Luke 14:28 (KJV)

“For which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost, whether he have sufficient to finish it?”

God is a God of preparation.

God prepared Noah before the flood.

God prepared Joseph before the famine.

God prepared Moses before the Exodus.

God prepared Joshua before Canaan.

God prepared David before the throne.

God prepared Esther before she approached the king.

Jesus prepared His disciples before Pentecost.

And God is still preparing His people today.

But here is something we need to understand:

Preparation doesn't always feel like preparation while you're going through it.

Sometimes preparation feels like waiting.

Sometimes it feels like correction.

Sometimes it feels like pressure.

Sometimes it feels like a closed door.

Sometimes it feels like you're being overlooked.

Sometimes it feels like nothing is happening.

But God may be saying:

“I'm not denying you. I'm developing you.”

So today I want to preach one word:

PREPARE!

Because you don't want to start getting ready after your opportunity arrives.

You want to be ready when it comes.

P — PRAY BEFORE YOU PROCEED

Preparation begins with prayer.

Proverbs 3:5–6 (KJV)

“Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.
In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.”

Before making the decision—pray.

Before accepting the opportunity—pray.

Before starting the relationship—pray.

Before beginning the ministry—pray.

Before making the investment—pray.

Before responding in anger—pray.

Prayer invites God into the preparation.

Jesus demonstrated this.

Before choosing the twelve apostles, Jesus spent the night in prayer.

Luke 6:12–13 (KJV)

“And it came to pass in those days, that he went out into a mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God.
And when it was day, he called unto him his disciples: and of them he chose twelve, whom also he named apostles;”

Jesus prayed before He chose.

“Don't let your feet take you somewhere your prayers haven't prepared you to go.”

Before you proceed—

PRAY!

R — REMOVE WHAT WILL HINDER YOU

Preparation sometimes requires removal.

Hebrews 12:1 (KJV)

“Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us…”

Notice Scripture mentions both weight and sin.

Everything hindering you may not necessarily be sinful.

Some things are simply too heavy to carry into your next season.

God may be saying:

Remove the bitterness.

Remove the unforgiveness.

Remove the unnecessary distractions.

Remove destructive habits.

Remove pride.

Remove relationships that continually pull you away from God.

Illustration

Before an airplane takes off, weight matters. There is a limit to what it can safely carry.

And sometimes we are asking God to take us higher while insisting on carrying everything with us.

Preaching Line

“Some things weren't bad for where you were, but they're too heavy for where God is taking you.”

Preparation asks:

“WHAT DO I NEED TO LEAVE BEHIND?”

E — EXAMINE YOURSELF

Before we examine everybody else, preparation requires us to examine ourselves.

2 Corinthians 13:5 (KJV)

“Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves…”

David prayed:

Psalm 139:23–24 (KJV)

“Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts:
And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.”

Preparation requires honest self-examination.

How is my prayer life?

How is my attitude?

How am I treating people?

Am I holding unforgiveness?

Am I living what I'm preaching?

Am I growing spiritually?

Can God correct me?

Don't always pray:

“Lord, change them.”

Sometimes preparation requires:

“LORD, CHANGE ME!”

Preaching Line

“You cannot prepare what you refuse to examine.”

P — POSITION YOURSELF FOR GOD'S PURPOSE

There are times when God has already promised something, but we must position ourselves appropriately.

Think about the widow in 2 Kings 4.

Elisha told her to borrow empty vessels.

She gathered them before the oil multiplied.

The vessels were preparation.

Or consider the Shunammite woman.

2 Kings 4:10 (KJV)

“Let us make a little chamber, I pray thee, on the wall…”

She prepared a room today without knowing what God would do tomorrow.

Sometimes faith means making room before you see anything happening.

Noah built before rain.

Joseph stored before famine.

The wise virgins carried oil before the midnight cry.

Preaching Line

“Faith doesn't only believe God will do something—faith gets ready for what it believes God will do.”

Ask yourself:

Am I positioned for what I've been praying for?

A — ACCEPT GOD'S PROCESS

This may be the hardest part of preparation.

We want God's promise.

But we don't always want God's process.

Joseph dreamed about leadership.

But between the dream and the palace came:

A pit.

Slavery.

False accusation.

Prison.

Waiting.

Joseph could not see it at the time, but God was developing him.

James 1:3–4 (KJV)

“Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience.
But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.”

God's process may involve:

Waiting.

Correction.

Serving.

Learning.

Disappointment.

Closed doors.

Small assignments.

And difficult seasons.

Remember our Potter's House message:

The clay cannot become the vessel while refusing the Potter's hands.

“Don't ask God for the finished product while resisting the process He uses to produce it.”

Tell somebody:

“TRUST THE PROCESS!”

R — REMAIN READY

It isn't enough to get ready.

You've got to stay ready.

Jesus taught this through the five wise and five foolish virgins.

Matthew 25:10 (KJV)

“And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came; and they that were ready went in with him to the marriage…”

Notice those words:

“THEY THAT WERE READY.”

All ten had lamps.

All ten were waiting.

All ten became sleepy.

But only five had prepared adequately.

When the midnight cry came, there wasn't time to start preparing.

The opportunity had arrived.

Church, there are some things you cannot wait until the last minute to prepare for.

Don't wait for trouble to start praying.

Don't wait for temptation to learn Scripture.

Don't wait until your family is in crisis to start building relationships.

Don't wait for the door to open to develop your gift.

Preaching Line

“If you stay ready, you don't have to scramble to get ready when God opens the door.”

E — EXPECT GOD TO MOVE

Preparation should produce expectation.

Psalm 5:3 (KJV)

“My voice shalt thou hear in the morning, O LORD; in the morning will I direct my prayer unto thee, and will look up.”

David prayed—and then looked up.

That's expectation.

Elijah told his servant to look toward the sea because he was expecting rain.

Eventually the servant saw a little cloud.

1 Kings 18:44 (KJV)

“Behold, there ariseth a little cloud out of the sea, like a man's hand.”

Elijah didn't need a big cloud.

He knew a little evidence was enough when God had spoken.

Application

If you're praying, expect God to hear you.

If you're planting, expect a harvest in God's timing.

If you're preparing, expect God to use the preparation according to His will.

If God told you to build the room, build it.

If God told you to gather the vessels, gather them.

If God told you to prepare the ark,

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GOD’S PREPARATION HAS A PURPOSE

What Joshua’s Journey Teaches Us About God’s Preparation

Main Text: Joshua 1:1–9
Supporting Scriptures: Exodus 17:8–14; Exodus 24:12–13; Exodus 33:11; Numbers 13–14; Numbers 27:18–23

Key Scripture — Joshua 1:2 (KJV)

“Moses my servant is dead; now therefore arise, go over this Jordan, thou, and all this people, unto the land which I do give to them…”

Central Thought

God never wastes a season of preparation. What Joshua experienced yesterday was preparing him for the purpose God would reveal tomorrow.

INTRODUCTION — WHAT IS GOD PREPARING YOU FOR?

Have you ever looked back over your life and suddenly understood why God allowed you to go through certain experiences?

While you were going through them, they didn't make sense.

You asked:

“Lord, why am I here?”

“Why am I having to deal with this?”

“Why is this taking so long?”

“Why do I have to serve in this position?”

“Why am I fighting this battle?”

But years later you looked back and said:

“Now I understand.”

That experience taught me something.

That person taught me something.

That disappointment matured me.

That waiting developed patience.

That battle strengthened my faith.

That small assignment taught me responsibility.

Sometimes we don't understand preparation because we are looking at the experience while God is looking at the purpose.

Joshua is a perfect example.

When Joshua fought Amalek, he probably didn't fully understand how that battle was preparing him.

When he served Moses, he didn't know exactly when leadership would become his responsibility.

When he waited near the mountain, God was preparing him.

When he stood against the ten unbelieving spies, God was preparing him.

When he wandered through the wilderness, God was preparing him.

And when Moses laid his hands upon him, God was preparing him.

Then one day Moses died, and God said:

“Now therefore arise, go over this Jordan.”

Suddenly all those years of preparation made sense.

GOD'S PREPARATION HAD A PURPOSE!

And church, what if some of the things you're experiencing right now are preparing you for something you haven't seen yet?

1. GOD PREPARED JOSHUA THROUGH BATTLES

Long before Joshua led Israel into Canaan, God allowed him to lead Israel into battle against Amalek.

Exodus 17:9 (KJV)

“And Moses said unto Joshua, Choose us out men, and go out, fight with Amalek…”

Think about what Joshua had to learn.

He had to choose people.

He had to organize them.

He had to lead them.

He had to make decisions under pressure.

He had to keep fighting when he was tired.

God was developing leadership skills in Joshua before Joshua knew the full purpose.

But Joshua also learned something else.

While he fought in the valley, Moses stood on the mountain with his hands raised.

When Moses' hands were lifted, Israel prevailed.

Joshua learned:

My ability isn't enough.

I need God.

Application

Some battles aren't designed to destroy you.

God can use them to develop you.

You learned how to pray because of a battle.

You learned patience because of a battle.

You discovered who your real friends were because of a battle.

You discovered strength you didn't know you had because of a battle.

“Don't waste your battle. There may be a lesson in this battle that you're going to need for your purpose.”

2. GOD PREPARED JOSHUA THROUGH SERVICE

Exodus 24:13 (KJV)

“And Moses rose up, and his minister Joshua: and Moses went up into the mount of God.”

Joshua was called Moses' minister, meaning his servant or assistant.

Before Joshua commanded others, he learned how to serve someone else.

That's preparation.

We live in a generation that often wants the position before the preparation.

We want titles.

Platforms.

Recognition.

Authority.

But God often starts us with:

“Serve.”

David served sheep.

Elisha served Elijah.

Timothy learned under Paul.

The disciples served alongside Jesus.

Joshua served Moses.

“God may be watching how you handle somebody else's assignment before He entrusts you with your own.”

3. GOD PREPARED JOSHUA THROUGH HIS PRESENCE

Exodus 33:11 (KJV)

“…but his servant Joshua, the son of Nun, a young man, departed not out of the tabernacle.”

This tells us something about Joshua.

He had an appetite for God's presence.

Moses left.

Joshua remained.

Joshua wasn't only learning leadership techniques from Moses.

Joshua was developing his own relationship with God.

This is essential.

You cannot live forever on somebody else's relationship with God.

Children need their own relationship.

Ministers need their own relationship.

Leaders need their own prayer life.

Preaching Line

“God wasn't merely preparing Joshua to take Moses' position; He was preparing Joshua to know Moses' God.”

4. GOD PREPARED JOSHUA THROUGH WAITING

Joshua accompanied Moses toward Mount Sinai.

Exodus 24:13

“And Moses rose up, and his minister Joshua: and Moses went up into the mount of God.”

Moses spent forty days and nights on the mountain.

Joshua learned to wait.

Waiting is one of God's great classrooms.

We don't like it.

We want everything immediately.

But sometimes God says:

“Not yet.”

Not because He has forgotten you.

Not necessarily because you're doing something wrong.

Sometimes you're simply still being prepared.

Isaiah 40:31 (KJV)

“But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength…”

Illustration

You can pull fruit from a tree before it ripens, but taking it early doesn't make it ready.

Sometimes God loves us enough not to give us something before we're prepared to handle it.

5. GOD PREPARED JOSHUA BY TESTING HIS FAITH

Numbers 13 changed everything.

Twelve spies went into Canaan.

They all saw giants.

They all saw fortified cities.

They all saw the same obstacles.

But Joshua and Caleb saw something the others forgot:

GOD'S PROMISE.

Numbers 14:8–9 (KJV)

“If the LORD delight in us, then he will bring us into this land, and give it us… Only rebel not ye against the LORD, neither fear ye the people of the land…”

Ten men saw giants and said:

“We can't.”

Joshua saw giants and essentially said:

“God can.”

Why was that important?

Because one day Joshua would have to lead Israel into that very land.

God was revealing Joshua's faith before revealing Joshua's leadership.

“Joshua could lead people into the promise because he believed the promise before he was ever put in charge.”

6. GOD PREPARED JOSHUA THROUGH DISAPPOINTMENT

Joshua and Caleb were ready to enter Canaan.

But because the nation refused to believe God, Joshua had to spend decades in the wilderness with them.

Imagine that frustration.

“I'm ready, but the people aren't.”

Joshua had faith.

Yet he still had to wait.

Sometimes your delay isn't because you lack faith.

There are circumstances beyond your control.

But Joshua didn't become bitter.

He remained faithful.

Application

Be careful that waiting doesn't turn into bitterness.

Don't let somebody else's mistake destroy your character.

Don't let disappointment make you abandon your purpose.

“Joshua survived a season he didn't create because God had a future he couldn't afford to miss.”

7. GOD PREPARED JOSHUA THROUGH MENTORSHIP

Joshua spent years observing Moses.

He saw Moses:

Pray.

Intercede.

Lead.

Deal with criticism.

Handle rebellious people.

Make difficult decisions.

Experience victories.

And make mistakes.

Joshua's education didn't come only from books.

He learned by walking with somebody who had already been walking with God.

Proverbs 13:20 (KJV)

“He that walketh with wise men shall be wise…”

Application

Everybody needs somebody they can learn from.

And wise preparation doesn't merely learn from somebody's successes.

Learn from their mistakes too.

8. GOD PREPARED JOSHUA BEFORE MOSES WAS GONE

Numbers 27:18 (KJV)

“And the LORD said unto Moses, Take thee Joshua the son of Nun, a man in whom is the spirit, and lay thine hand upon him;”

This is important.

God didn't wait until Moses died to start thinking:

“Who can replace Moses?”

God had already prepared Joshua.

That's how God works.

God knows tomorrow before tomorrow gets here.

Before Israel knew they needed Joshua...

God was preparing Joshua.

Before Moses died...

God was preparing

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PREPARE TODAY FOR WHAT GOD WILL DO TOMORROW

Main Text: 2 Kings 4:8–37

Key Verse: 2 Kings 4:10

Supporting Thought: Proverbs 24:27

Central Truth:
You may not know what God is going to do tomorrow, but you can prepare yourself today to be ready when He does it.

INTRODUCTION — TOMORROW REQUIRES SOMETHING FROM TODAY

Church, one of the great mistakes we make in life is waiting until tomorrow to prepare for what we could have prepared for today.

A farmer does not wait until harvest time to plant his seed.

A student does not wait until the examination begins to start studying.

A builder does not wait until construction begins to draw the plans.

An athlete does not wait until game day to start training.

A preacher should not wait until Sunday morning to begin seeking God for Sunday's Word.

Why?

Because tomorrow often reveals what we did—or failed to do—today.

That's what preparation is.

Preparation is today's response to tomorrow's possibilities.

And faith takes preparation one step further.

Sometimes God tells us to prepare for something we cannot yet see.

Noah built an ark when there was no flood.

Joseph stored grain while Egypt was experiencing abundance.

The wise virgins carried extra oil before the midnight cry.

The disciples waited in Jerusalem before Pentecost came.

And here in 2 Kings 4, a woman prepares a room without realizing that the room she prepares today will become connected to what God will do tomorrow.

She wasn't asking for a son.

She wasn't bargaining with God.

She wasn't saying:

“God, if I build this room, You owe me something.”

She simply recognized God's servant passing through her community and said:

“Let's make a room.”

But church, she didn't know...

God was already working on tomorrow.

She was preparing a room.

God was preparing a promise.

She was preparing a bed.

God was preparing a son.

She was making room for the prophet.

God was about to make room in her life for something she had stopped expecting.

And that's our message:

PREPARE TODAY FOR WHAT GOD WILL DO TOMORROW!

THE BACKGROUND

The woman lived in Shunem, a town in the territory of Issachar.

Elisha regularly traveled through the area.

The Bible describes her as a “great woman.” This likely points to her being a woman of standing or means.

Initially, she simply provided Elisha with meals whenever he passed through.

But after observing him, she realized:

“This is no ordinary traveler.”

She told her husband that she perceived Elisha was “an holy man of God.”

Then she moved from hospitality to preparation.

1. PREPARATION BEGINS WITH PERCEPTION

2 Kings 4:9 (KJV)

“And she said unto her husband, Behold now, I perceive that this is an holy man of God, which passeth by us continually.”

Notice her words:

“I PERCEIVE.”

Before she prepared anything, she recognized something.

Everybody could see Elisha walking through town.

But she discerned something different.

She recognized that God was connected to this man's ministry.

Preparation often begins with spiritual perception.

You need to recognize:

What season am I in?

What is God doing?

What is God saying?

What opportunity is passing in front of me?

What should I be preparing for?

Illustration

A farmer watches the seasons.

He doesn't plant merely because he feels like planting. He recognizes when the season is right.

Spiritually, we need discernment to recognize our season.

“You cannot properly prepare for what you fail to perceive.”

2. PREPARATION REQUIRES YOU TO MAKE ROOM

2 Kings 4:10 (KJV)

“Let us make a little chamber, I pray thee, on the wall…”

I love her language.

She didn't say:

“Let's see whether we have room.”

She said:

“LET US MAKE A ROOM.”

There's a difference.

Sometimes room isn't available.

You have to make it.

We say we want more of God.

But have we made room?

We want a stronger prayer life.

Have we made room for prayer?

We want to understand Scripture.

Have we made room for study?

We want stronger families.

Have we made room for family time?

We want God to use us.

Have we made room for preparation?

Application

Sometimes our lives become so crowded that God gets whatever time remains.

But preparation says:

“God will not merely get my leftovers. I'm making room for Him.”

“If God is important to you, make room for Him before everything else fills the room.”

3. PREPARATION REQUIRES INTENTIONAL DETAILS

Look at what she placed in the room.

2 Kings 4:10

She provided:

A bed.

A table.

A stool.

A candlestick.

Nothing elaborate.

But everything necessary.

The bed gave Elisha a place to rest.

The table gave him a place to work or eat.

The stool gave him a place to sit.

The lamp gave him light.

She didn't merely have a good idea.

She followed through.

That's preparation.

Preparation is not saying:

“One day I'm going to…”

Preparation says:

“I'm starting now.”

Illustration

Anybody can say, “I'm going on vacation.”

But preparation means booking the transportation, packing the luggage, arranging the hotel, and making plans.

Intentions talk about tomorrow. Preparation does something today.

4. PREPARATION WILL COST YOU SOMETHING

That room wasn't free.

Materials cost something.

Furniture cost something.

Labor cost something.

Time was involved.

Space in their home was surrendered.

Preparation has a price.

Noah sacrificed years building the ark.

Joseph sacrificed space storing grain.

The wise virgins carried extra oil.

The disciples sacrificed time waiting in Jerusalem.

This woman sacrificed resources to prepare a room.

2 Samuel 24:24 (KJV)

David said:

“Neither will I offer burnt offerings unto the LORD my God of that which doth cost me nothing.”

If you're preparing for greater things, don't be surprised when preparation requires sacrifice.

It may cost time.

It may cost comfort.

It may require discipline.

It may require getting up earlier.

It may require saying no to something good so you can prepare for something better.

“Preparation has a price, but being unprepared can cost even more.”

5. SERVE GOD TODAY WITHOUT TRYING TO CONTROL WHAT HE DOES TOMORROW

This point is very important.

The Shunammite woman did not build the room to get a son.

There was no transaction.

She wasn't manipulating God.

She simply wanted to serve.

Later Elisha asked what could be done for her.

2 Kings 4:13 (KJV)

“Behold, thou hast been careful for us with all this care; what is to be done for thee?”

Elisha even offered to speak to the king or military commander for her.

Her answer showed contentment:

“I dwell among mine own people.”

She wasn't looking for political favors.

She wasn't looking for recognition.

She wasn't saying:

“Now that I've done something for God, what is God going to do for me?”

That's mature faith.

We should serve God because God is worthy, not because we're trying to force a blessing.

“Prepare faithfully today, but leave tomorrow in God's hands.”

6. GOD KNOWS WHAT YOU STOPPED ASKING FOR

Then Gehazi noticed something.

2 Kings 4:14 (KJV)

“Verily she hath no child, and her husband is old.”

Suddenly we discover an empty place in this woman's life.

She had a house.

She had resources.

She had a husband.

She had influence.

But...

She had no child.

And her husband was old.

Perhaps she had prayed years earlier.

Perhaps she had cried.

Perhaps she had hoped.

Perhaps disappointment had taught her to stop talking about it.

When Elisha told her she would have a son, her response revealed how sensitive that wound still was.

2 Kings 4:16

“Nay, my lord, thou man of God, do not lie unto thine handmaid.”

In other words:

“Don't play with my emotions.”

“Don't make me hope again if this isn't real.”

Some disappointments hurt so deeply that we protect ourselves by no longer expecting anything.

But God had not forgotten her.

“You may have stopped talking about it, but that doesn't mean God stopped knowing about it.”

7. GOD CAN PUT SOMETHING IN YOUR TOMORROW THAT WAS IMPOSSIBLE TODAY

2 Kings 4:17 (KJV)

“And the woman conceived, and bare a son at tha

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JESUS PREPARED THEM BEFORE HE SENT THEM

“Called First, Prepared Next, Sent Finally”

Main Text: Mark 3:13–15 (KJV)

“And he goeth up into a mountain, and calleth unto him whom he would: and they came unto him.
And he ordained twelve, that they should be with him, and that he might send them forth to preach,
And to have power to heal sicknesses, and to cast out devils:”

Central Thought

Jesus did not merely call His disciples; He prepared them for what He called them to do.

INTRODUCTION — THE CALL IS NOT THE SAME AS THE PREPARATION

There is a difference between being called and being prepared.

You can be called today and still need preparation for tomorrow.

A young person may be accepted into medical school, but that does not mean you want them performing surgery tomorrow morning!

They have been accepted.

They have potential.

They have entered the process.

But they still need to be prepared.

They need classrooms.

They need books.

They need instructors.

They need laboratories.

They need clinical experience.

They need correction.

They need supervised practice.

Why?

Because calling gives you an assignment, but preparation equips you to carry it.

When Jesus called Peter, Andrew, James, John, Matthew, and the others, He did not immediately say:

“Now go change the world.”

He spent approximately three years preparing them.

Think about who Jesus chose.

They were not perfect men.

Peter was impulsive.

Thomas struggled with doubt.

James and John could be ambitious and hot-tempered.

Matthew had been a tax collector.

Simon the Zealot came from a radically different political background.

And Judas would ultimately betray Him.

Yet Jesus looked at these imperfect men and saw what they could become after spending time in His hands.

That's preparation!

Jesus took ordinary people and prepared them to do extraordinary things.

And here's the message for the church:

God doesn't call us because we're already finished. He calls us and then begins preparing us for what He knows we can become.

1. JESUS PREPARED THEM BY CALLING THEM AWAY FROM THEIR OLD LIVES

Matthew 4:18–20 (KJV)

“And Jesus, walking by the sea of Galilee, saw two brethren, Simon called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea: for they were fishers.
And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.
And they straightway left their nets, and followed him.”

Look carefully at Jesus' words:

“Follow Me, and I will MAKE you…”

He didn't say:

“You're already ready.”

He said:

“I will make you.”

Peter knew how to catch fish.

Jesus was going to teach him how to catch people.

Preparation required leaving something behind.

Sometimes God cannot prepare us for the new while we insist on holding onto the old.

Illustration

When a person enters military training, they don't dictate the schedule. They enter a new discipline because they're being prepared for an assignment greater than themselves.

Preaching Thought

“Jesus doesn't only call us FROM something; He calls us TO something—and then He makes us ready for it.”

2. JESUS PREPARED THEM BY LETTING THEM BE WITH HIM

This may be one of the most important points.

Mark 3:14 (KJV)

“And he ordained twelve, that they should be with him, and that he might send them forth to preach,”

Notice the order.

WITH HIM — before SENT BY HIM.

Before they preached Jesus, they had to know Jesus.

Before they represented Him, they had to spend time with Him.

They watched Him pray.

They watched Him heal.

They watched Him forgive.

They watched Him handle opposition.

They watched Him deal with sinners.

They watched Him respond to criticism.

They watched Him show compassion.

Jesus wasn't merely giving lectures.

His life was their classroom.

Application

We cannot properly work for Jesus if we refuse to spend time with Jesus.

Prayer prepares us.

Worship prepares us.

The Word prepares us.

His presence prepares us.

Preaching Line

“Before Jesus put something in their hands, He put something in their hearts.”

3. JESUS PREPARED THEM THROUGH HIS WORD

Matthew 5:1–2 (KJV)

“And seeing the multitudes, he went up into a mountain: and when he was set, his disciples came unto him:
And he opened his mouth, and taught them, saying,”

Jesus was constantly teaching His disciples.

He taught them about:

Faith.

Prayer.

Forgiveness.

Humility.

Money.

Marriage.

Serving.

The Kingdom.

The Holy Spirit.

His death and resurrection.

And His return.

They couldn't properly represent a Kingdom they didn't understand.

Illustration

Before someone represents a company, they receive training. The company doesn't want the employee giving customers whatever answer comes to mind.

Likewise, we represent Christ.

We must know His Word.

Application

Zeal without knowledge can hurt people.

Good intentions aren't enough.

Prepared disciples are students of the Word.

4. JESUS PREPARED THEM BY GIVING THEM HANDS-ON EXPERIENCE

Jesus didn't keep the disciples in the classroom forever.

Eventually He sent them out.

Luke 9:1–2 (KJV)

“Then he called his twelve disciples together, and gave them power and authority over all devils, and to cure diseases.
And he sent them to preach the kingdom of God, and to heal the sick.”

This was preparation through participation.

Jesus allowed them to practice what they had been learning.

That's discipleship.

Watch Me.

Learn from Me.

Now you do it.

Then come back and we'll talk about what happened.

Illustration

You cannot learn to swim only by reading a book about swimming.

Eventually somebody has to get into the water.

There comes a point when preparation requires participation.

5. JESUS PREPARED THEM THROUGH THEIR FAILURES

This is important because the disciples did not get everything right.

Peter tried to walk on water and began sinking.

The disciples argued about who was greatest.

They failed to cast a demon out of a boy.

James and John wanted positions of honor.

Peter rebuked Jesus.

And eventually Peter denied Jesus three times.

Yet Jesus continued working with them.

Luke 22:31–32 (KJV)

“And the Lord said, Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat:
But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren.”

Jesus knew Peter would fail.

But He also knew Peter's failure did not have to be final.

Notice:

“When thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren.”

Jesus saw Peter's future beyond Peter's failure.

Preaching Line

“Sometimes God uses what embarrassed you yesterday to prepare you to strengthen somebody tomorrow.”

Failure becomes preparation when we repent, learn, and allow Christ to restore us.

6. JESUS PREPARED THEM TO BECOME SERVANTS

The disciples had to learn that Kingdom greatness was different from worldly greatness.

Mark 10:43–45 (KJV)

“But so shall it not be among you: but whosoever will be great among you, shall be your minister:
And whosoever of you will be the chiefest, shall be servant of all.
For even the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.”

Jesus even washed their feet.

Why?

Because He was preparing leaders who needed to understand:

Leadership is not about being served.

Leadership is about serving.

Jesus had to prepare their character before entrusting them with His church.

Application

Talent may open a door.

Giftedness may attract attention.

But character determines whether you can remain where your gift takes you.

7. JESUS PREPARED THEM FOR LIFE WITHOUT HIS PHYSICAL PRESENCE

The disciples had become accustomed to Jesus being physically present.

But Jesus knew Calvary was coming.

He knew He would rise again.

He knew He would ascend.

So He prepared them for the Holy Spirit.

John 14:16–18 (KJV)

“And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever;
Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.
I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you.”

Jesus was preparing them for transition.

Things were about to change.

They would no longer physically walk beside Jesus through Galilee.

But they would not be abandoned.

The Holy Spirit would dwell within them.

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"Prepare for the Overflow"

"God Fills What Faith Prepares"

Primary Text: 2 Kings 4:1–7 (NKJV)

Theme Statement:
God often requires preparation before He pours out His provision.

Introduction

One of the greatest mistakes people make is believing that miracles happen without preparation.

We pray for harvest but never prepare the field.

We ask God for promotion but fail to develop our character.

We pray for financial blessings but never become faithful stewards.

We ask God to use us, yet we neglect prayer, study, and obedience.

Throughout Scripture, God repeatedly prepares people before He performs miracles.

Before the flood came, Noah built an ark.

Before Israel crossed the Jordan, Joshua told the people to sanctify themselves.

Before Jesus fed the five thousand, He had the people sit down in groups.

Before Pentecost came, the disciples waited together in prayer.

God is a God of preparation.

Perhaps nowhere is this truth seen more clearly than in the story of a poor widow whose life was about to change forever.

She had no money.

She had no husband.

She had creditors demanding payment.

She had two sons who were about to be taken as slaves.

She had every reason to give up.

Yet God showed her that her miracle would begin with preparation.

Scripture Reading

2 Kings 4:1–7 (NKJV)

1 A certain woman of the wives of the sons of the prophets cried out to Elisha, saying, "Your servant my husband is dead, and you know that your servant feared the LORD. And the creditor is coming to take my two sons to be his slaves."

2 So Elisha said to her, "What shall I do for you? Tell me, what do you have in the house?" And she said, "Your maidservant has nothing in the house but a jar of oil."

3 Then he said, "Go, borrow vessels from everywhere, from all your neighbors—empty vessels; do not gather just a few.

4 And when you have come in, you shall shut the door behind you and your sons; then pour it into all those vessels, and set aside the full ones."

5 So she went from him and shut the door behind her and her sons, who brought the vessels to her; and she poured it out.

6 Now it came to pass, when the vessels were full, that she said to her son, "Bring me another vessel." And he said to her, "There is not another vessel." So the oil ceased.

7 Then she came and told the man of God. And he said, "Go, sell the oil and pay your debt; and you and your sons live on the rest."

I. Preparation Begins When We Bring Our Need to God

2 Kings 4:1 (NKJV)

"A certain woman of the wives of the sons of the prophets cried out to Elisha..."

She did not deny her problem.

She did not hide her pain.

She brought her need to God's prophet.

The first step in preparation is admitting that we need God's help.

Illustration

A patient cannot receive treatment until he is willing to admit he needs a physician.

God's help begins with honest humility.

II. God Begins with What We Already Have

2 Kings 4:2 (NKJV)

**"...What shall I do for you? Tell me, what do you have in the house?"

And she said, "Your maidservant has nothing in the house but a jar of oil."**

Notice she said she had "nothing"...

Then she remembered the oil.

We often overlook what God has already placed in our hands.

God usually begins with what seems small.

Moses had a rod.

David had a sling.

The little boy had five loaves and two fish.

The widow had one jar of oil.

Illustration

An acorn looks insignificant, yet inside it is the potential for a mighty oak tree. God often hides great possibilities inside small beginnings.

III. Faith Prepares for What It Cannot Yet See

2 Kings 4:3 (NKJV)

"Then he said, 'Go, borrow vessels from everywhere, from all your neighbors—empty vessels; do not gather just a few.'"

This was an unusual command.

Why gather empty jars when there was only one small jar of oil?

Because faith prepares for tomorrow's miracle today.

God told her to prepare room for what He was about to do.

Illustration

Imagine ordering a larger dining table because you believe your family will soon grow. The table itself does not cause the blessing, but it reflects confident expectation.

IV. Obedience Unlocks God's Provision

2 Kings 4:4–5 (NKJV)

**"And when you have come in, you shall shut the door behind you and your sons; then pour it into all those vessels, and set aside the full ones."

So she went from him and shut the door behind her and her sons... and she poured it out."

She did not argue.

She did not negotiate.

She obeyed.

Miracles often follow simple obedience.

Illustration

Naaman was healed only after washing in the Jordan seven times. The power was not in the river but in obedience to God's word.

V. God Fills Every Vessel That Is Available

2 Kings 4:6 (NKJV)

"Now it came to pass, when the vessels were full... 'There is not another vessel.' So the oil ceased."

The oil did not stop because God ran out.

It stopped because there were no more prepared vessels.

God filled every vessel she made available.

Illustration

Rain can fill only the containers placed outside. An upside-down bucket or one left in the garage remains empty, not because there was no rain, but because it was not available.

VI. God's Blessings Are Meant to Meet Needs and Create a Future

2 Kings 4:7 (NKJV)

"Go, sell the oil and pay your debt; and you and your sons live on the rest."

God did more than solve today's crisis.

He provided for tomorrow as well.

His blessing brought freedom from debt and hope for the future.

God's provision is often greater than our immediate request.

Illustration

A loving father does not simply hand his child lunch for one day; he teaches the child skills that will provide for years to come.

VII. The Size of Our Preparation Often Reflects the Size of Our Expectation

Notice Elisha's words:

"Do not gather just a few."

What if she had borrowed only three jars?

She would have received only enough oil to fill three jars.

The limitation was never God's power.

The limitation was the number of vessels she prepared.

Illustration

If a farmer plants one row of corn, he cannot expect a harvest from ten rows. God gives the increase, but faith still prepares the ground.

Conclusion

The widow's miracle did not begin when the oil flowed.

It began when she walked to her neighbors' houses and started collecting empty jars.

Every empty vessel declared,

"I believe God is going to do something He has never done before."

Church, what empty vessels are you preparing?

Are you preparing your prayer life?

Your family?

Your ministry?

Your heart?

Your faith?

God is still looking for empty vessels He can fill.

Closing Challenge

Don't wait for the oil before you gather the jars.

Don't wait for the harvest before you prepare the field.

Don't wait for the opportunity before you develop the character.

Don't wait for the blessing before you make room for it.

Prepare now.

Because God fills what faith prepares.

Altar Call

Today, God is asking each of us the same question He asked the widow: "What do you have in your house?" He can take what seems small and make it more than enough—but He also asks us to prepare. If you're willing to become an empty vessel, surrendered and available to God, come. If you're asking God to prepare you for the next season of your life, come. Let's ask Him to fill every area we've placed before Him and trust that, in His time, the oil will continue to flow.

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Life teaches us that preparation determines performance.

A pilot prepares before the flight.

A surgeon prepares before the operation.

A firefighter prepares before the alarm sounds.

A student prepares before the examination.

An athlete prepares before the championship.

Preparation is never exciting while you're doing it, but everyone appreciates it when the moment arrives.

The same is true spiritually.

Many people want God's promises without God's preparation. We pray for blessings but neglect our relationship with God. We desire promotion but resist the process. We want victory while avoiding the discipline that produces it.

Jesus understood this tendency, so during the final week before His crucifixion He told a series of parables about being ready for His return.

Among them is the story of ten virgins waiting for the bridegroom.

All ten looked alike.

All ten carried lamps.

All ten expected the bridegroom.

All ten became sleepy.

But only five were prepared.

When midnight came, preparation made the difference.

Church, the greatest tragedy is not missing an opportunity because you were unable—but because you were unprepared.

The Midnight Cry Reveals Our Preparation

Matthew 25:6–7 (NKJV)

**"And at midnight a cry was heard: 'Behold, the bridegroom is coming; go out to meet him!'

Then all those virgins arose and trimmed their lamps."**

Midnight represents unexpected moments.

No one expected the cry then.

Likewise, life often changes without warning.

The question is not whether unexpected moments will come.

The question is whether we will be ready when they do.

Illustration

A firefighter trains every week, hoping the alarm never sounds. But when it does, training—not panic—guides every decision.

1. Preparation Begins Before the Crisis

Matthew 25:4 (NKJV)

"But the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps."

The wise virgins prepared before there was a need.

They did not wait until midnight.

Preparation always happens while everything appears normal.

Illustration

Noah built an ark before there was rain.

For years people laughed at him.

But when the rain finally came, preparation became salvation.

Lesson:
Faith prepares before it sees.

2. Preparation Requires Personal Responsibility

Matthew 25:8–9 (NKJV)

**"And the foolish said to the wise, 'Give us some of your oil, for our lamps are going out.'

But the wise answered, saying, 'No, lest there should not be enough for us and you; but go rather to those who sell, and buy for yourselves.'"**

Some things cannot be borrowed.

You cannot borrow:

• someone's prayer life,
• someone's faith,
• someone's relationship with God,
• someone's obedience.

Each believer must know God personally.

Illustration

A student cannot borrow another student's studying after the exam begins.

Preparation is always personal.

3. Preparation Means Planning for Delays

Matthew 25:5 (NKJV)

"But while the bridegroom was delayed, they all slumbered and slept."

The wise expected delays.

The foolish assumed everything would happen immediately.

Sometimes God delays His promises—not to deny them, but to develop us.

Biblical Example

Joseph waited over thirteen years between his dreams and his promotion.

The waiting was part of God's preparation.

4. Preparation Is Proven Under Pressure

Matthew 25:6–7 (NKJV)

**"And at midnight a cry was heard: 'Behold, the bridegroom is coming; go out to meet him!'

Then all those virgins arose and trimmed their lamps."**

Midnight reveals what daylight hides.

Pressure exposes preparation.

You don't discover your faith in easy times.

You discover it when life becomes dark.

Illustration

Firefighters do not learn how to fight fires while the building is burning.

They train long before the emergency.

5. Preparation Keeps Your Light Burning

Matthew 25:7–8 (NKJV)

**"Then all those virgins arose and trimmed their lamps.

And the foolish said to the wise, 'Give us some of your oil, for our lamps are going out.'"**

The issue was not having a lamp.

The issue was having enough oil.

Many people have religion.

God is looking for relationship.

The oil reminds us that God's Spirit continually sustains our lives.

Illustration

A flashlight is useless without fresh batteries.

Many Christians carry the lamp but neglect the oil.

6. Preparation Opens Doors That Never Open Again

Matthew 25:10 (NKJV)

"And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went in with him to the wedding; and the door was shut."

Preparation opens doors.

Unpreparedness closes them.

There are moments in life that never return.

Short Story

A young man dreamed of becoming a concert pianist. His friends spent their evenings relaxing, but he practiced for hours every day. Years later, people applauded his "natural talent." They never saw the thousands of hours of preparation behind the performance.

Opportunity rewards preparation.

7. Preparation Today Determines Eternity Tomorrow

Matthew 25:11–13 (NKJV)

**"Afterward the other virgins came also, saying, 'Lord, Lord, open to us!'

But he answered and said, 'Assuredly, I say to you, I do not know you.'

Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour in which the Son of Man is coming."**

The saddest words are not,

"I wasn't invited."

The saddest words are,

"I wasn't ready."

Jesus ends the parable with one command:

Watch.

Live every day prepared.

Illustration: The Karate Kid

Many remember the movie The Karate Kid. Daniel became frustrated because Mr. Miyagi had him wax cars, paint fences, sand floors, and paint the house. It seemed like meaningless work.

Then one day Mr. Miyagi began throwing punches.

Without thinking, Daniel blocked every attack.

The movements he had practiced during ordinary chores became the very skills that protected him in the battle.

Sometimes God has us in seasons that seem repetitive and ordinary—praying, serving, waiting, studying His Word, forgiving others, and remaining faithful. We may wonder why.

Then suddenly, the battle comes.

And we discover that God was never wasting our time.

He was preparing us.

Conclusion

The difference between the wise and foolish virgins was not intelligence.

It was not appearance.

It was not invitation.

It was not opportunity.

The difference was preparation.

Five prepared for the midnight cry.

Five assumed they could prepare later.

One group entered the celebration.

The other stood outside a closed door.

Invitation

The Bridegroom is still calling.

The invitation is still open.

The door of grace is still available.

But Jesus reminds us that the opportunity to prepare will not last forever.

The question is not:

"Is Jesus coming?"

The question is:

"Will He find me prepared?"

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