In a revelation Joseph Smith received in September 1830, the Lord urged everyone who is willing to listen to Him:
…to prepare their hearts and be prepared in all things against the day when tribulation and desolation are sent forth upon the wicked.
Doctrine and Covenants 29:8
Alma said that, because Adam and Eve were cast out from the Garden of Eden, this life became “a time to prepare” (Alma 12:24). He also referred to this life as a “preparatory state” (Alma 12:26, Alma 42:10).
For many of us, the COVID-19 pandemic and associated quarantines have been a wake-up call, a reminder that we need to be prepared for any number of difficulties that we may face. In the last general conference, we heard multiple reminders of the need to prepare:
- Elder David A. Bednar reminded us of the importance of storing food and emergency supplies. He also reminded us to prepare ourselves spiritually by continuing to study the gospel (“We Will Prove Them Herewith,” General Conference, October 2020).
- Bishop Christopher Waddell encouraged us to follow wise principles as we build up a basic supply of food and water and as we save money. Two of these principles are to act “in wisdom and order” and to remember that the Lord will magnify our “small and simple” efforts, as we engage in them over time (“There Was Bread,” General Conference, October 2020).
- President Russell M. Nelson instructed us to prepare ourselves emotionally and spiritually by (1) creating places of security, (2) seeking spiritual knowledge, and (3) never becoming complacent (“Embrace the Future with Faith,” General Conference, October 2020).
Today, I will prepare for the future. I will reevaluate my plans to ensure that I’m prepared—physically, emotionally, and spiritually—to meet the additional challenges which I know I will face in the future.