Article May 17, 1930 Issue

Real Preparedness

MAY W. MATHIAS

An expression frequently used in public addresses by statesmen and in the press is the term "preparedness," meaning a state of being prepared, being ready. According to a dictionary, the word "prepare" is derived from two Latin words meaning "before" and "to make ready." Hence, the word means to make all things ready before—before a certain occasion or situation arises.

We may not know what the condition will be for which we are being prepared. What we do need to know, however, is that we are being prepared. Thrice daily did Daniel pray with his windows open toward Jerusalem, striving to gain a clearer understanding of God. He perhaps did not know how this preparatory work was to help him in time of sore need, and he sought Truth for Truth's sake. But when placed in the den with the lions he was ready to meet and master the thoughts of evil that had placed him there, and to realize only the presence and power of Love.

A very helpful lesson applicable to the needs and experiences of to-day may be found in Daniel's experience. When he learned that the decree had been signed by Darius, "he went into his house; and his windows being open in his chamber toward Jerusalem, he kneeled upon his knees three times a day, and prayed, and gave thanks before his God, as he did aforetime." The knowledge that he might soon have an opportunity to prove God's power to save him only heightened his confidence, faith, and gratitude. Thus he tightened his spiritual armor about him and went through the experience unharmed.

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