Prevention 

By Jan Moser

    During several recent Winter Storms with low temperatures (actual) in the teens, we wanted to avoid frozen and burst water pipes, to prevent the incredible mess – not to mention the time-consuming damage repair and dealing with insurance companies (no offense to the caring people working diligently in that field, severalof whom we know). So at both home and church, we have always practiced preventive measures such as dripping faucets, turning up heat a little higher than usual and leaving sink cabinets open during the coldest part of the night. As long as we retain electricity, all is well. Like the old saying reminds us, “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” 

    The same is true of our spiritual walk. If we keep up with our daily Bible reading and our worship, we will have better access to the Bible verses in our hearts and minds, when we need them during a difficult situation. 

    If we form our closest friendships with fellow believers,  we will not have as many temptations, or difficulties with saying no to someone when they pressure us to do something that violates our consciences. 

   When we pray (and ask good friends to, as well) ahead of probably challenges, we can have words and action plans prepared before a worrisome topic or situation occurs. 

    Can you think of more helpful preparations?

     May we all ensure that our spiritual foundation is strong and ready. 

Luke 6:47-48, MSG “These words I speak to you are not mere additions to your life, homeowner improvements to your standard of living. They are foundation words, words to build a life on. If you work the words into your life, you are like a smart carpenter who dug deep and laid the foundation of his house on bedrock. When the river burst its banks and crashed against the house, nothing could shake it; it was built to last.”