The Principle of Preparation
Have you ever had a moment where you knew people were depending on your preparation, but you felt completely unready? That was me as I sat down to prepare my sermon for the last Sunday of the year. My pastor back in Brooklyn had asked me to preach from 2 Corinthians 9:15. I read the text over and over, praying and studying, yet nothing seemed to come together.
I even considered preaching something familiar instead. But deep down, I knew God had something new to say.
As I kept seeking God, the light began to break through. That’s when I saw it: the principle of preparation.
2 Corinthians 9 in Context
In 2 Corinthians 9, Paul writes to the church in Corinth about a financial gift they promised to give. As I read the chapter over and over, it was kind of funny to me that Paul didn’t fully trust them to not embarrass him (read it and see for yourself). Paul sends people ahead to make sure everything is prepared in advance.
Paul uses this moment to teach about generosity, sowing, and reaping. Then, seemingly out of nowhere, he closes with this powerful statement:
"Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!" (2 Corinthians 9:15)
At first glance, this verse feels random. But it isn’t. As they prepared their gift, Paul reminded them that the ultimate prepared gift is Jesus. Before we even knew we needed Him, God had already provided everything we’d ever need.
Preparation isn’t just practical; it’s spiritual. It reflects the heart of a God who didn’t rush but carefully planned everything for our salvation.
Ready, Not Rushed
Preparation reveals the difference between being ready and being rushed. When you’re rushed, everything feels overwhelming. But when you’re ready, even unexpected challenges don’t shake you. Preparation brings peace.
How often do we throw things together at the last minute and call it “good enough”? God has already prepared so much for us, yet we often fail to reflect that same intentionality in what we offer back to Him.
This year, let’s commit to being ready—ready for opportunities, challenges, and to reflect God’s excellence in everything we do.
Give God Your Best
God deserves our best, not just what’s left over. Preparation ensures that what we bring to Him—our time, talents, and resources—is an offering of excellence, not mediocrity.
Paul sent people ahead to Corinth to prepare their gift. In the same way, I believe God sent me ahead to remind you: prepare your gift this year.
If you don’t have a prayer life, now is the time to start one.
If you don’t have a method for studying God’s Word, build one.
If you don’t have a plan for personal growth, create one.
If you don’t have a strategy for staying healthy, develop one
This year:
Complacency won’t cut it.
Mediocrity won’t cut it.
Procrastination won’t cut it.
Preparation isn’t about perfection; it’s about intentionality.
Where in your life could intentional preparation bring peace? Start there.
One Thought
The principle of preparation leads to the promise of provision.
One Verse
"And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work." (2 Corinthians 9:8)
