2 Timothy 2:15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

In May 2013, thirteen-year-old Arvind Mahankali correctly spelled the word “knaidel” (a German-Yiddish word for a dumpling) to win the 86th Scripps National Spelling Bee. Mahankali had finished third each of the two previous years. In both of those years he was eliminated when he failed to correctly spell a German-derived word.

In preparation for his third attempt at the prize, Mahankali diligently worked to strengthen his area of weakness. “This year I prepared German words and I studied them, so when I got German words this year, I wasn’t worried,” he said after his victory.

No one has yet invented a way to magically acquire knowledge—or anything else worthwhile—without effort and preparation to be precise.

If we are going to be successful in life, whether in our ministry, our career, our family, or even our hobbies, we have to devote the time and effort required in our preparation to gain the skills and knowledge we need and then continue to devote the time and effort required to maintain what we have achieved.

#1. Seek knowledge. Proverbs 15:14 declares, “The heart of him that hath understanding seeketh knowledge...”.

#2. Commit to positive regular practices. It is said that, whatever you do consistently for twenty one days becomes a habit. Do the right thing consistently, and you will always be prepared.

#3. Place yourself in an empowering environment. In other words, surround yourself with people who are more successful than you are, so they can spur you on for greater works.

Precious one, proper preparation does appear like a pain in the skin but doesn't kill; it rather saves from the ills of life.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, in the name of Jesus, help me to be prepared at all times to show myself approved, Amen.