Daily Devotional - October 13th, 2025
“A man’s heart deviseth his way: but the Lord directeth his steps.”— Proverbs 16:9
“No amount of faith can compensate for a lack of preparation. Merely believing that things will work out will not suffice as a substitute for personal responsibility and preparation. To the contrary, being prepared is possibly the most genuine expression of faith.” — Alma Ohene-Opare
Commentary:
Faith is not passive optimism, it is active trust. When we prepare, plan, and take responsibility, we demonstrate belief that God will meet us along the path of effort. Preparation is not the opposite of faith; it is its companion. To pray for rain and then fail to plant seeds is not faith, it is folly.
Throughout scripture, those who truly believed were those who acted. Noah didn’t just trust that God would protect his family; he built the ark plank by plank. Joseph didn’t just believe God would provide; he filled the storehouses before the famine came. The wise virgins didn’t just expect the bridegroom to arrive; they brought extra oil for their lamps. Their faith was expressed through foresight and action.
In contrast, those who confuse faith with wishful thinking often find themselves unprepared when trials come. Faith was never meant to replace wisdom, planning, or work. God provides the opportunities, but we must provide the readiness. Preparation is how we show Heaven we take our stewardship seriously.
True faith looks forward. It sees what is coming and acts accordingly. It is neither reckless nor lazy; it is disciplined, hopeful, and responsible. The faithful prepare not because they fear the future, but because they trust that the future matters.
Scripture:
“A man’s heart deviseth his way: but the Lord directeth his steps.”— Proverbs 16:9
Daily Application:
Identify one area in your life where you’ve been relying solely on faith without sufficient preparation—perhaps finances, health, spiritual growth, or career. Ask yourself, “If God opened the door tomorrow, would I be ready to walk through it?” Take one concrete step today that aligns your preparation with your prayers.