Sound preparation and wise planning does not look for trouble or cause trouble.  But it is ready for action when needed.

Practical preparation, wisely put into decisive action, results in positive outcomes.

The following is a paraphrase of Genesis 14:1-12.
Four kings made war against five kings.  The five kings were defeated and came under the rule of the four kings for thirteen years.  Then the five kings rebelled and were defeated.  The defeated people and their possessions were taken north beyond Damascus.  Lot, the nephew of Abram was among the defeated.

A fugitive escaped.
(NASB) Genesis 14:13 “Then a fugitive came and told Abram the Hebrew.  Now he was living by the oaks of Mamre the Amorite, brother of Eshcol and brother of Aner, and these were allies with Abram.”

Abram was prepared.  He had his own trained army of 318 men as well as three trustworthy allies.

Preparation took years; then, plans were swiftly made and put into action.
(NASB) Genesis 14:14 “When Abram heard that his relative had been taken captive, he led out his trained men, born in his house, three hundred and eighteen, and went in pursuit as far as Dan.

Strategy was implemented by his plans for war.
 (NASB) Genesis 14:15 “He divided his forces against them by night, he and his servants, and defeated them, and pursued them as far as Hobah, which is north of Damascus.”

Victorious results were seen.
(NASB) Genesis 14:16 “He brought back all the goods, and also brought back his relative Lot with his possessions, and also the women and the people.”

What do you need to do in your life to prepare for possible needs in your future?

1- Prayerfully and practically prepare: in your home, in your job, in your family.
2- Prayerfully plan when the time comes for decisive action.
3- Prayerfully, and intentionally, plan a strategy for a positive outcome.
4- Prayerful preparation and planning will always involve others… Abram had prepared 318 trained men for protection and he had three allies to come alongside in case of need.

~ Take it to heart ~

Victory is not won without sound preparation and wise planning.
Be prayerfully prepared.

(NASB) Deuteronomy 31:8 “The Lord is the one who goes ahead of you.  He will be with you.  He will not fail you or forsake you.  Do not fear or be dismayed.”