PREPARATION FOR TIMES OF FAMINE

PREPARATION FOR TIMES OF FAMINE

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Genesis 41:33-36

Key Verse: “Let Pharaoh do this, and let him appoint officers over the land… and gather all the food of those good years that come…” (Genesis 41:34-35)

Supporting Texts: Proverbs 6:6-8; Ecclesiastes 11:2; Amos 8:11; Matthew 25:1-13

Description: Preparation for times of famine is the wisdom-driven discipline of storing, planning, and positioning during seasons of abundance to withstand future scarcity: spiritually, financially, and emotionally.

INTRODUCTION
Life operates in cycles. Seasons of abundance are often followed by seasons of scarcity. Scripture teaches that wisdom is not merely enjoying abundance but preparing for potential famine.

Joseph understood that prosperity is a responsibility. The years of plenty in Egypt were not meant for waste but for preparation. Because of foresight and discipline, a nation survived crisis.

Preparation is proof of maturity. It demonstrates understanding of times and submission to divine instruction.

1. DISCERNING THE SEASON OF ABUNDANCE
Preparation begins with recognizing when you are in a season of plenty.

a) Recognizing Divine Warning (Genesis 41:25-32)
Joseph discerned that abundance would not last forever.

b) Wisdom of the Ant (Proverbs 6:6-8)
The ant gathers in summer, understanding future need.

c) Avoiding Complacency
Abundance can create comfort that blinds people to coming challenges.

d) Gratitude with Responsibility
Every blessing carries an assignment.

Biblical Example: Noah prepared the ark before the flood came, acting on divine instruction long before the rain fell (Genesis 6:13-22).

2. STRATEGIC PLANNING AND DISCIPLINE
Preparation requires intentional action, not mere awareness.

a) Structured Storage (Genesis 41:34-35)
Joseph implemented a systematic plan to collect and preserve grain.

b) Distribution with Wisdom (Ecclesiastes 11:2)
Diversifying resources guards against uncertainty.

c) Financial and Practical Stewardship
Managing resources wisely prevents unnecessary crisis.

d) Avoiding Wastefulness
Discipline today prevents desperation tomorrow.

Biblical Example: The wise virgins stored oil in preparation for the bridegroom’s arrival, while the foolish neglected readiness (Matthew 25:1-13).

3. SPIRITUAL PREPARATION FOR FAMINE
Not all famines are physical; some are spiritual.

a) Famine of the Word (Amos 8:11)
There can be scarcity of spiritual guidance and revelation.

b) Storing the Word in the Heart (Psalm 119:11)
Internalizing Scripture strengthens believers during dry seasons.

c) Building Prayer Capacity
Spiritual reserves sustain faith during trials.

d) Deepening Relationship with God
Prepared hearts endure difficult seasons with confidence.

Biblical Example: Jesus fasted and prayed before entering public ministry, demonstrating preparation before spiritual confrontation (Matthew 4:1-11).

4. THE PURPOSE OF PREPARATION
Preparation is not rooted in fear but in wisdom and responsibility.

a) Preservation of Life (Genesis 41:56-57)
Because of preparation, many lives were saved.

b) Stability During Crisis
Prepared individuals remain calm when others panic.

c) Opportunity in Famine
Egypt became a source of provision to surrounding nations.

d) Fulfillment of Destiny
Joseph’s preparation positioned him as a solution provider.

Biblical Example: David prepared resources for the temple long before Solomon built it, ensuring continuity of purpose (1 Chronicles 22:5).

CONCLUSION
Preparation for times of famine is an act of wisdom, faith, and stewardship. Abundance is not merely for consumption but for conservation and strategy.

Those who prepare in seasons of plenty will stand strong in seasons of scarcity. Spiritual depth, disciplined stewardship, and obedience to divine instruction ensure stability when challenges arise.

May we embrace wisdom in prosperity so that we remain secure in adversity.

PRAYER POINTS

1. Father, grant me wisdom to recognize my season in Jesus name.

2. Lord, teach me discipline in times of abundance in Jesus name.

3. Father, help me prepare wisely for future challenges in Jesus name.

4. Lord, deliver me from wastefulness and complacency in Jesus name.

5. Father, strengthen my spiritual reserves through Your Word in Jesus name.

6. Lord, help me build prayer capacity for difficult seasons in Jesus name.

7. Father, position me as a solution during times of crisis in Jesus name.

8. Lord, grant me foresight and strategic insight in Jesus name.

9. Father, let my preparation preserve lives and destinies in Jesus name.

10. Lord, establish me in wisdom for every season in Jesus name.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS

1. You shall not be unprepared for any coming season.

2. Wisdom shall guide your decisions in abundance.

3. You shall store spiritual strength for difficult days.

4. You shall remain stable during seasons of scarcity.

5. Your discipline today shall secure your tomorrow.

6. You shall not be overtaken by unexpected crisis.

7. You shall become a source of provision to others.

8. Your foresight shall distinguish you.

9. Every season of plenty shall strengthen your foundation.

10. You shall walk in divine wisdom through every cycle of life.