What Does The Bible Say About Preparing For Hard Times?

Hard times can strike when we least expect them. Natural disasters, economic crashes, pandemics, wars – history shows we cannot predict when adversity will come knocking. As Christians, how should we prepare for potential hardships ahead while still trusting God to provide for us each day?

By studying relevant Bible passages, we can find wisdom, hope and guidance on putting our faith into action.

If you don’t have time to read the full article, here is the key Bible verse on this topic: “But if anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for members of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever” (1 Timothy 5:8).

This article will provide an in-depth look at this and other verses about material preparation, spiritual preparation, helping others, trusting God and more.

The Bible Encourages Reasonable Material Preparation

Store Up During Times of Plenty

The Bible encourages being prudent and preparing for future needs during times when resources are abundant. Proverbs 6:6-8 uses the metaphor of the ant, known for stockpiling food, to teach foresight and planning ahead: “Go to the ant, you sluggard; consider its ways and be wise!

It has no commander, no overseer or ruler, yet it stores its provisions in summer and gathers its food at harvest.” Just as the ant stores up food in summer for the winter months ahead, we should be forward-thinking during seasons of prosperity.

In Genesis 41, Joseph interpreted Pharaoh’s dream to mean 7 years of abundance would be followed by 7 years of famine. He advised Pharaoh to store up grain during the good years to prepare. This demonstrates the wisdom of setting aside resources, whether finances, food, or other provisions, when they are plentiful to prepare for future needs.

Prepare Your Fields and Flocks

In addition to storing up resources, the Bible encourages preparing fields, flocks, and other sources of provision to have an ongoing supply. Ecclesiastes 11:4 says, “Whoever watches the wind will not plant; whoever looks at the clouds will not reap.”

This conveys that we should not allow fear or uncertainty about the future to paralyze us from tending to responsibilities in the present that prepare us for the road ahead.

Proverbs 27:23 says, “Be sure you know the condition of your flocks, give careful attention to your herds.” By diligently tending to crops, livestock, and livelihoods during each season, we position ourselves to have sustenance and income.

While ultimate provision comes from God (Matthew 6:26), we have a responsibility to steward resources wisely for the future.

Take Precautions and Seek Shelter in Advance

The Bible praises foresight in seeking shelter from calamity before it strikes. Proverbs 22:3 says, “The prudent see danger and take refuge, but the simple keep going and pay the penalty.” Preparing evacuation plans, emergency supplies, fortified shelters, and other precautions can save lives when adversity hits.

Jesus told the parable of two builders, one who built his house on rock and the other on sand (Luke 6:46-49). When the rain and flood came, only the house with a strong foundation on solid rock stood. This illustrates the wisdom of building resilience on strong spiritual foundations and taking preventative measures so difficulties do not sweep us away.

Reasonable preparation does not reflect fear or mistrust in God but rather good stewardship of the resources He provides. As 1 Timothy 5:8 says, “Anyone who does not provide for their relatives, and especially for their own household, has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.”

We demonstrate faith and responsibility by wisely planning ahead. Trusting God’s provision does not negate our responsibility to be proactive stewards. With prudence and God’s help, we can prepare for challenges on the horizon.

To learn more, check out this article on biblical principles on preparation.

More Important is Spiritual Preparation Through Faith

Pray for Strength, Wisdom and Discernment

In uncertain times, it is crucial that we pray for God’s strength, wisdom and discernment. When we feel weak, overwhelmed or confused, we can ask God to renew us spiritually and equip us for the challenges ahead (Isaiah 41:10).

Through prayer, we gain divine perspective and insight to make wise choices. Praying the scriptures is powerful too. We can meditate on verses about God’s faithfulness, provision and sovereignty. This builds our trust in Him.

Meditate on God’s Promises and Provision

The Bible contains thousands of promises we can claim as believers. Promises of peace, comfort, rest, and freedom from fear. “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand” (Isaiah 41:10).

When we feel anxious, focusing on such verses reassures us of God’s presence and power. Remembering how God provided in the past increases our faith that He will provide what we need now too.

Trust God, Not Earthly Resources

Hard times reveal where our trust really lies – in earthly wealth/security or in God alone? We must examine our hearts and surrender anything we are depending on other than Christ. He wants us to find our security in Him, not temporary things.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding” (Proverbs 3:5). As we loosen our grip on this world, we can take hold of the eternal. We can boldly pray, “Lord, You are my provider, protector and rock of stability when all around me feels shaky.”

Helping Others in Need

Hospitality Towards Strangers

The Bible encourages believers to show hospitality and care for strangers in need. Hebrews 13:2 says, “Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by this some have entertained angels without knowing it.” Showing hospitality and welcoming strangers reflects God’s love.

Practical ways to show hospitality include providing food, shelter, and clothing to those in need. We can open our homes and churches to assist strangers and immigrants looking for help and refuge (Leviticus 19:33-34). Small actions of kindness can make a big difference.

Caring for Widows and Orphans

God cares deeply for widows, orphans and the vulnerable in society. James 1:27 states that true religion is to care for widows and orphans in their distress. Throughout the Old and New Testament, God instructs His people to defend the cause of widows and fatherless children (Psalm 82:3-4, Isaiah 1:17).

The early church made sure widows were provided for (Acts 6:1-6). As Christians, we are called to generously assist and uplift widows, orphans, and vulnerable children in their time of need. We can volunteer, donate, foster, adopt, and mobilize our churches to offer practical care.

Generously Lending and Giving

Followers of Christ are encouraged to generously lend and give to help others. Luke 6:38 states, “Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.”

As we give generously to the poor and needy, God promises to bless us in return (Proverbs 19:17). We are to lend freely without expecting repayment (Luke 6:35). Churches can organize food and clothing drives, fundraisers, and other initiatives to assist local communities.

As Christians, we must have open hands and open hearts, ready to give freely just as Christ gave Himself for us.

God Understands our Fears but Calls us to Faithfulness

Do Not Be Anxious About Tomorrow

Life can feel uncertain and worrying about the future is common. However, Jesus tells us in Matthew 6:34: “Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.”

God knows we have a tendency to get wrapped up in fears about the unknown, but He reminds us to trust Him daily rather than trying to control everything ourselves. Each day has enough concerns already without being burdened by hypothetical fears.

The key is to cling to God moment by moment and find peace through His presence.

Seek God’s Kingdom and Righteousness First

It’s easy to get consumed by worries about material needs, but Jesus challenges us in Matthew 6:33: “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”

God promises to provide for us, but He wants us to prioritize pursuing Him rather than being preoccupied with earthly things. As we follow His ways each day, He takes care of the rest. What a comfort to know He is in control! Instead of striving in our own strength, we can rest as we walk with Him.

God Knows What You Need Before You Ask

Do you ever feel like God is distant when you’re going through hard times? Be assured that He cares deeply! As Matthew 6:8 says, “Your Father knows what you need before you ask him.” He is acquainted with all our ways.

You may feel alone, but you can trust that His eyes are on you and He is intricately involved in your life’s story. He bottles every tear and promises to work all things for good in the lives of those who love Him (Psalm 56:8, Romans 8:28).

Turn to Him in prayer, fully believing that He understands and will provide in His perfect timing.

Conclusion

While the Bible promotes wisdom in preparing for potential famines, disasters, pandemics and other hardships, Scripture makes clear that our trust should ultimately be in God alone. By taking reasonable precautions, prioritizing spiritual growth and generosity towards others, we live out a faithful reliance on God’s provision day by day.

When adversity comes, we can stand firm in the hope and comfort only Christ can offer. Through prayerfully applying these Bible truths, we can walk in peace rather than fear as we navigate uncertain times.