Provision

In the biblical context, "provision" refers to God's act of supplying the needs of His people. The concept of divine provision is a recurring theme throughout Scripture, illustrating God's faithfulness and care for His creation.

One of the most notable examples of provision is found in the account of the Israelites in the wilderness. After their exodus from Egypt, God provided manna from heaven to sustain them. Exodus 16:4 states, "Then the LORD said to Moses, 'Behold, I will rain down bread from heaven for you. Each day the people are to go out and gather enough for that day.'" This daily provision of manna was a testament to God's ongoing care and a test of the Israelites' obedience and trust in Him.

In the New Testament, Jesus emphasizes God's provision in the Sermon on the Mount. In Matthew 6:31-33 , He instructs, "Therefore do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the Gentiles strive after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you." Here, Jesus reassures believers that God is aware of their needs and will provide for them as they prioritize His kingdom.

The Apostle Paul also speaks of God's provision in Philippians 4:19 , "And my God will supply all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus." This promise underscores the sufficiency of God's provision through Christ, who is the ultimate source of all blessings.

Preparation

Preparation in the Bible often involves spiritual readiness and the anticipation of future events, particularly in relation to God's plans and purposes. It encompasses both human responsibility and divine guidance.

In the Old Testament, preparation is seen in the life of Noah, who was instructed by God to build an ark in anticipation of the coming flood. Genesis 6:14 records God's command, "Make for yourself an ark of gopher wood; make rooms in the ark and coat it with pitch inside and out." Noah's obedience in preparing the ark was crucial for the preservation of his family and the animal species.

The concept of preparation is also evident in the ministry of John the Baptist, who was sent to prepare the way for the coming of the Messiah. In Mark 1:2-3 , it is written, "As it is written in Isaiah the prophet: 'Behold, I will send My messenger ahead of You, who will prepare Your way.' 'A voice of one calling in the wilderness, ‘Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for Him.’" John's role was to call people to repentance and readiness for the arrival of Jesus.

In the parable of the ten virgins, Jesus teaches about the importance of spiritual preparation for His return. Matthew 25:10 describes the outcome for those who were unprepared: "But while they were on their way to buy it, the bridegroom arrived. Those who were ready went in with him to the wedding banquet, and the door was shut." This parable serves as a warning to be vigilant and prepared for the second coming of Christ.

The Apostle Peter also exhorts believers to be prepared to defend their faith. In 1 Peter 3:15 , he writes, "But in your hearts sanctify Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give a defense to everyone who asks you the reason for the hope that is in you, but respond with gentleness and respect." This preparation involves a deep understanding of one's faith and the ability to articulate it to others.

In summary, provision and preparation are intertwined themes in the Bible, reflecting God's care and the believer's responsibility to trust in His provision while actively preparing for His purposes.