Previously when sending out the twelve (Luke 9 v3), and when He sent out the seventy two (Luke 10 v4), Jesus had told them not to take provisions but going relying on God to provide through others. Now they are going to face hostile days and they are to take whatever provisions and precautions they can (v36). In hostile days more preparation is needed as we seek to serve Christ and be faithful to Him.

There are times for God’s people to step out in faith, but there are also times to wisely plan and prepare for what is ahead. Knowing the difference is not always easy, but it comes from staying close to Jesus.

This was a time for preparation because Jesus was going to be treated as a criminal and that would impact His followers too. It is important to read the signs and adjust our planned course of action. The same actions do not always work or are not always appropriate in every situation. One example of this is sharing the Gospel. There are times to be very direct and there are times to be more cautious. Pray for wisdom to know the difference.