A Time to Prepare

 A Family Preparedness Guide for the Days Ahead

Prepared for the Believers

Introduction: A Call to Wisdom

We are living in uncertain times. War, economic instability, and rising costs remind us how quickly life can change. The purpose of this guide is not to create fear—but to encourage wisdom, stewardship, and readiness.

The Book of Proverbs teaches us:

“A prudent man foreseeth the evil, and hideth himself: but the simple pass on, and are punished.” — Proverbs 22:3 (KJV)

Preparation is not fear—it is faith in action.

Section 1: Spiritual Readiness Comes First

Before we prepare our homes, we must prepare our hearts.

“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” — Psalm 46:1 (KJV)

Family Spiritual Checklist

☐ Daily prayer as a family

☐ Regular reading of Scripture

☐ Commitment to gather with the church

☐ Teach children to trust in the Lord, not fear circumstances

“Trust in the LORD with all thine heart…” — Proverbs 3:5 (KJV)

Section 2: Basic Food Preparedness (2–3 Months)

In times of disruption, food supply can become strained. Stores rely on constant delivery.

Recommended Basic Foods

• Rice
• Beans (dry or canned)
• Pasta
• Flour and baking supplies
• Canned vegetables and fruits
• Peanut butter
• Shelf-stable milk or alternatives
• Cooking oil
• Salt and sugar

“There is treasure to be desired and oil in the dwelling of the wise…” — Proverbs 21:20 (KJV)

Practical Tips

• Store what your family already eats
• Rotate food to keep it fresh
• Buy gradually—avoid panic buying

Section 3: Water and Health Needs

Water is essential for life.

Water Guidelines

• At least 1 gallon per person per day
• Store a minimum of 2 weeks’ supply
• Consider water filtration options

Health Essentials

• Prescription medications
• Basic first aid kit
• Thermometer and fever reducers
• Hygiene supplies

“Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health…” — 3 John 1:2 (KJV)

Section 4: Financial Preparedness

Economic hardship often follows supply disruption.

Steps to Take

☐ Reduce unnecessary spending

☐ Avoid new debt if possible

☐ Set aside emergency funds

☐ Keep some cash available

“The borrower is servant to the lender.” — Proverbs 22:7 (KJV)

Section 5: Energy and Transportation

Fuel shortages or high prices can affect daily life.

Practical Steps

• Keep fuel tanks at least half full
• Plan essential travel only
• Prepare for limited driving if needed

Section 6: Household Essentials Checklist

Basic Supplies

☐ Toilet paper

☐ Soap and cleaning supplies

☐ Trash bags

☐ Batteries

☐ Flashlights

☐ Candles or backup lighting

Clothing & Warmth

☐ Blankets

☐ Seasonal clothing

☐ Emergency heat source (if applicable)

Section 7: Strengthening Family & Community

Preparedness is not only about supplies—it is about people.

“Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.” — Galatians 6:2 (KJV)

Action Steps

☐ Know your neighbors

☐ Check on elderly members of the church

☐ Share resources when possible

☐ Build relationships before a crisis comes

Section 8: Providing for Your Household

The Bible speaks directly to the responsibility of provision.

“But if any provide not for his own… he hath denied the faith…” — 1 Timothy 5:8 (KJV)

Providing includes:

• Physical needs
• Emotional stability
• Spiritual leadership

Section 9: Guarding Against Fear

In uncertain times, fear spreads quickly.

But we are not called to fear—we are called to faith.

“For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” — 2 Timothy 1:7 (KJV)

Remember

• Stay informed, but not consumed
• Focus on what you can control
• Trust in God’s provision

Section 10: Family Preparedness Plan

Write Your Plan Below

Family Meeting Place: ___________________________

Emergency Contacts: ___________________________

Church Contact: _______________________________

Medical Needs: ________________________________

Food Storage Location: _________________________

Closing Encouragement

We do not know what tomorrow holds—but we know who holds tomorrow.

“Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them… is like a wise man, which built his house upon a rock.” — Matthew 7:24 (KJV)

Prepare your home.

Strengthen your faith.

Care for one another.

And stand firm.

Pastoral Note

This guide is given in love—not to alarm, but to encourage wisdom. Let us be a ready people—not only to endure—but to serve.