DIVINE PREPARATION

Title: DIVINE PREPARATION

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: “For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.” (Ephesians 2:10)

Supporting Texts: Jeremiah 1:5, Isaiah 64:8, 2 Timothy 2:21

INTRODUCTION:
Divine preparation is the process by which God equips and positions His people for their purpose and destiny. Throughout the Bible, we see that before God uses someone for His glory, He prepares them. Preparation is not just about readiness; it is about alignment with God's plans and timing. Divine preparation involves moulding, refining, and empowering His vessels. This sermon explores the concept, process, and blessings of divine preparation.

1. UNDERSTANDING DIVINE PREPARATION

a) God Has a Plan for Every Individual
Before you were formed, God had a purpose for you (Jeremiah 1:5).

b) Preparation Requires Yielding to God
God, as the potter, moulds us into vessels fit for His use (Isaiah 64:8).

c) It Is Both Spiritual and Practical
Divine preparation involves building character and acquiring skills (Exodus 31:2-5).

d) God Prepares in Seasons
Every season of life serves a purpose in God’s preparation process (Ecclesiastes 3:1).

e) Biblical Example: David’s time as a shepherd prepared him to be king (1 Samuel 17:34-37).

2. STEPS IN DIVINE PREPARATION

a) Separation from Worldly Distractions
God often calls His vessels into a place of solitude (Genesis 12:1).

b) Developing a Deep Relationship with God
Knowing God personally is key to preparation (Psalm 25:4-5).

c) Obedience to God's Instructions
Faithful obedience unlocks divine preparation (Genesis 22:2-3).

d) Patience and Trust in God's Timing
Waiting on God is crucial in the preparation process (Isaiah 40:31).

e) Biblical Example: Moses spent 40 years in the wilderness before God called him (Exodus 3:1-4).

3. THE PURPOSE OF DIVINE PREPARATION

a) To Build Spiritual Capacity
Preparation strengthens faith and spiritual maturity (Hebrews 5:14).

b) To Refine Character
God removes impurities and builds integrity (Malachi 3:3).

c) To Equip for Service
God imparts the skills and wisdom needed for His work (2 Timothy 3:17).

d) To Align with God's Will
Preparation ensures alignment with God’s purpose (Romans 8:28).

e) Biblical Example: Joseph’s years in prison prepared him to manage Egypt’s resources (Genesis 41:39-41).

4. CHALLENGES OF DIVINE PREPARATION

a) Delays and Waiting Periods
Preparation often involves waiting, which tests patience (Habakkuk 2:3).

b) Trials and Testing
Challenges refine and strengthen faith (James 1:2-3).

c) Sacrifice and Surrender
Preparation may require giving up personal desires (Luke 14:33).

d) Facing Opposition
Resistance and discouragement may arise during preparation (Nehemiah 4:1-3).

e) Biblical Example: Esther faced significant risks before fulfilling her purpose (Esther 4:15-16).

5. BLESSINGS OF DIVINE PREPARATION

a) Fulfilment of Destiny
Prepared vessels accomplish God’s purpose (Jeremiah 29:11).

b) Empowerment for Great Exploits
God equips the prepared with divine power (Acts 1:8).

c) Spiritual Fruitfulness
Prepared individuals bear lasting fruit (John 15:16).

d) Eternal Rewards
Faithfulness in preparation leads to heavenly blessings (2 Timothy 4:7-8).

e) Biblical Example: Jesus' 40 days of fasting prepared Him for His ministry (Matthew 4:1-11).

CONCLUSION:
Divine preparation is God's way of shaping and equipping His people for His purpose. It requires submission, trust, and perseverance. As you yield to His preparation process, you will be transformed into a vessel of honour, fit for His use. Trust God, remain faithful, and let Him prepare you for the great things He has in store.

PRAYER POINTS:
1. Father, prepare me for Your divine purpose.

2. Lord, help me to yield to Your moulding process.

3. Father, align my life with Your will and timing.

4. Lord, strengthen me during seasons of waiting and trials.

5. Father, refine my character for Your glory.

6. Lord, equip me with the skills and wisdom I need for service.

7. Father, remove every distraction hindering my preparation.

8. Lord, empower me to overcome challenges during preparation.

9. Father, let me fulfil the destiny You have ordained for me.

10. Lord, make me a vessel of honour, fit for Your use.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS:
1. You will fulfil your God-ordained destiny in Jesus' name.

2. Every challenge in your preparation season will work for your good.

3. God will equip you with the wisdom and skills needed for your assignment.

4. Your waiting period will lead to supernatural breakthroughs.

5. The Lord will refine you into a vessel of honour for His glory.

6. You will bear lasting fruit in your walk with God.

7. Opposition against your preparation will crumble in Jesus' name.

8. Divine empowerment will rest upon you for great exploits.

9. The Lord will align your steps with His divine purpose.

10. You will step into your God-ordained season of greatness.