Preparing For the Storm: Part I

When I was young, clothes dryers were a luxury. We took our clothes outside to our clothesline and hung them up for the sun and wind to dry.

This required remaining alert for upcoming storms. When dark clouds rolled in or the wind whipped up, we knew to prepare for the storm by gathering our clothes before they were blown away or destroyed.

Small business leaders also need to be aware of the signs of an upcoming storm and properly prepare for the storm.

In Matthew 16:3, Jesus said, “You know how to discern the appearance of the sky, but are you unable to discern the signs of the times?”

In the passage above, Jesus was speaking to the Pharisees and Sadducees. They had come to test him, demanding a sign from the sky to prove his power. However, Jesus had already sent them a sign. What the Pharisees and Sadducees actually needed was the ability to interpret the existing omens.

Questions For Reflection

• How closely do you follow business or economic news? Have you found any reliable and relevant outlets to check? What would signs specific to your field look like?
• Have you ever received a sign from God? How were you sure it was divine? Have you stayed alert for signs?