For Self-Sufficiency, Emergency Preparations & Survival
Limited ONLY by Your Imagination & Practice
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Partially based on Creek Stewart's 365 Essential Survival Skills - Click to purchase on Amazon

Date
Tip / Skill / Hack
Reference(s)

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January 1 No, dear brothers, I am still not all I should be, but I am bringing all my energies to bear on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I strain to reach the end of the race and receive the prize for which God is calling us up to heaven because of what Christ Jesus did for us.    [Philippians 3:13-14]

   PLANNING: Emergency Preparedness Checklist
The tons of information on the web and this site can be overwhelming to someone just starting Emergency Preparations. The list, in the Related Link, may help simplify the process. Before clicking any of its links, use the basic list as is. Go slow, start small, then expand on details one item at a time using the links provided. Start preparing now. It will be too late when an emergency happens and everyone is panicing and scrambling for supplies.
    [1] - Shelter from the elements and safety
    [2] - Fire/Heat for staying warm, light, cooking and signaling
    [3] - Water (minimum of One (1) Gallon of Water per person, per day for drinking and sanitation)
    [4] - Food (estimate 2000 calories (+/-) per person per day)
    [5] - Personal Care & Sanitation (a mandate for good health in good times or bad)
    [6] - First Aid & Medicine (basic first aid medicines and supplies and prescription medications)
    [7] - Defense Strategy (defending ourselves, family and home or business is a right and a responsibility)
    [8] - Communications (how to stay in touch with one another and the outside world during an emergency)
    [9] - Navigation (learning to use a compass and map, Sun, Moon and Stars when GPS is down)
    [10] - Vehicle Preparation (regular maintenance, no less than 3/4 gas tank full and emergency supplies)
    [11] - Power Outage plan
    [12] - Finances (reduce debt and spending now, cash on hand, emergency fund)
    [13] - Important & Legal Documents: gather, organize & protect them for ready retrieval & transport
    [14] - Fun & Games to help to cope, reduce stress & lighten the mood in an unpleasant situation
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January 2 For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.    [Jeremiah 29:11]

   PLANNING: Realistic Reasons to Have an Emergency Plan
"There is no such thing as luck, merely opportunity meeting preparedness." ― George S. Patton Jr.

Preparing for an Emergency, long before one is actually realized, is not only a good idea, it's the responsible and mature thing to do for oneself, family, friends and community. The platitude "Prior Planning Prevents Poor Performance" will manifest itself, in a good or bad way, depending on how well you have planned. By the time a potential disaster event is realized, panic has already set in to the general public. Pre-planning (not just gathering stuff) is the key to preparation. It will keep a cool head when others have lost theirs. Information, below and throughout this web site, will help to make a plan and prepare for nearly any emergency situation.

Start slow and small with an Emergency Preparations Checklist otherwise it's easy to become overwhelmed and go crazy buying unnecessary stuff and over-spending. Like anything we want to purchase, we should make our shopping list, budget for it and stay within that spending limit.
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January 3 Never stop praying. Be ready for anything by praying and being thankful.    Colossians 4:2

   PLANNING: Get Real! Myths About Survivalism Could be Deadly
When a disaster happens, some may feel they will role right into a survivalist mode with ease because they have been doing a lot of planning and prepping. Most likely, the disaster will be sudden and "ease" will not be part of its description. However, it's amazing to see just what we are capable of living through, and accomplishing, when we depend only on ourselves [with God]. Understanding these "myths" should help to eliminate some assumptions and help to develop a documented plan of action and contingency plans. So, let's take a look at what reality might actually be like:
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January 4 Be generous, and you will be prosperous. Help others, and you will be helped.    [Proverbs 11:25]

   PLANNING: Help Family, Friends & Neighbors with Their Emergency Planning & Preps:
One of the best things we can do for ourselves is to share planning ideas and help others with their emergency planning and prepping. By doing that, we may reduce the number of people knocking on our doors when a disaster happens. The more people who are prepared for an emergency, the better.
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January 5 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   SKILLS, NOT STUFF, Will Sustain You in an Emergency
When the ultimate catastrophe occurs, there will be a huge group left that will be doing everything they can to survive. Learning Skills is more important than gathering stuff or relying on gadgets. You are a stranger surrounded by enemies and everyone around you feels the same way. What should you know before this happens? Learn and focus on skills and don't rely on stuff (supplies or gear). Visit the Related Link for details.
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January 6 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   TOOLS: Multi-Tool
At the top of the list of survival/emergency equipment to obtain is a "Cutting Tool". While a knife is good to carry with you at all times, a Multi-Tool combines a knife along with other useful tools (pliers, scissors, saw, file, screwdriver, etc.) to help in an emergency/survival situation. There are many sizes and configurations to suit anyone's needs. Selecting the size and configuration that suits you will help make it one of your Every Day Carry (EDC) items. As with any tool you acquire, learn how to use it before you actually need it. Visit the Links on the right for more information.
[Video 1]
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[Related Link]
[11 C's Kit]
January 7 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   TOOLS: Combustion Device (Fire Starter)
The second in priority of the list of survival/emergency equipment to obtain is a "Combustion Device". Simply put, anything that creates a flame or spark that can start a fire. A lighter, fire-starting rod or matches fit the bill. A Combutsion Device should be another of your Every Day Carry (EDC) items. Do your research on the many products available to select the one(s) that suit your EDC specifications. As with any tool you acquire, learn how to use it before you actually need it. Visit the links on the right for more information.
[Video 1]
[Video 2]
[Related Link]
[11 C's Kit]
January 8 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   DEFENSE: Firearms Safety & Training Basics
Whether hunting for food or protection against an attacker, learning how to effectively use multiple types of weapons is essential in preparation for survival or an emergency. You are encouraged to attend a formal firearms training course usually offered by local firearms merchants. The Related Links include information on the use of different kinds of firearms, ammunition, Laser Training and related topics.
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January 9 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   Brain Prepping for Your Worst-Case Scenario:
Chances are GOOD that something BAD will happen to you during your lifetime. Do you prefer not to think about that or choose to be prepared for it? Thinking through possible scenarios can prepare you to think on your feet when the bottom falls out and keep a cool head when the heat is on. You don't need to know everything if you train your brain to envision solutions that your eyes can't see.
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January 10 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   WATER: Safe Drinking Water from Snow & Ice
It's obvious that water is produced from melting snow or ice. That doesn't mean they are safe to consume and melting them may not be as simple as one might think. Consuming snow or ice can cause hypothermia and the water should be boiled, after melting, to reduce the chance of bacteria. And, what are the melting ratios from Snow/Ice to Water? Visit the Related Link for details.
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January 11 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   DEFENSE: How to Camouflage or Hide Valuables from Visitors or Looters
Need to hide some money? Documents? Keys? Maybe meds. The first rule; don't talk about things you want to keep private. The second thing is to use your imagination and research ideas to hide private things. Visit the Related Link for some ideas:
[Related Link 1]
[Related Link 2]
January 12 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   TOOLS: Making Cordage (rope) in the Wilderness from Plant or Animal Fibers
In a dire situation in the wild, a piece of string can become an important survival item. But making cordage from animals and common plants is a forgotten skill; a good skill to master to help in the construction of almost any need; a skill being kept alive thanks to survivalists and bushcraft enthusiasts. Having, or knowing how to make, cordage is one of the necessities of survival. The benefits of cordage are endless. When in a wilderness situation, gather these materials as you find them so you have them BEFORE you need them.
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January 13 But whenever someone turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away. For the Lord is the Spirit, and wherever the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. So all of us who have had that veil removed can see and reflect the glory of the Lord. And the Lord, who is the Spirit, makes us more and more like him as we are changed into his glorious image.    [2 Corinthians 3:16-18]

   HEALTH: DIY "Goggles" for Eye Protection When No Sunglasses are Available
Do It Yourself (DIY) emergency goggles to protect eyes from blowing sand, dust, wind, desert sun or snow blindness. Make from tree bark, wood or your supplies (duct tape, cloth, etc.)
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January 14 Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good! His faithful love endures forever.    [Psalm 136:1]

   PLANNING: Guidelines for a Successful Bug-Out "On Foot" During a Crisis
Prepare properly (physically and equipment), walk silently in a single file, avoid attention by others, stay hydrated, maintain positive thinking and stay motivated.
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January 15 And we urge you, brothers and sisters, warn those who are idle and disruptive, encourage the disheartened, help the weak, be patient with everyone. Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always strive to do what is good for each other and for everyone else.    [1 Thessalonians 5:14-15]

   PLANNING: Priority of Shelter
Even more important than having a source of drinking water, shelter is a top priority in most emergencies. Without shelter, severe weather conditions can kill within a few (3) hours. Shelter defends from the elements and intruders. Luckily, there are many techniques and materials (wherever you may be) for building and enhancing a shelter. Additionally, under "normal" conditions, it's helpful to learn techniques for heating, cooling, cleaning and filtering your indoor environment.
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January 16 Turn from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it.    [Psalm 34:14]

   SKILLS: Learn to Build a Fire for Cooking, Heat and Light
Building a fire for staying warm, light, cooking and signaling is a skill everyone should know. Having the tools and knowledge will make fire-building easier and effective. Without electricity, a well-built fire will build morale and provide heat and light.
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January 17 Finally, brothers and sisters, rejoice! Strive for full restoration, encourage one another, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you.    [2 Corinthians 13:11]

   PLANNING: Have Enough Water for an Emergency
Water is the essential element to survival and necessary in every emergency plan and emergency supplies kit. The average person can survive only three (3) days without water. Knowing how and where to gather water and properly store, filter and decontaminate water can supply you and your family with enough safe water during an emergency. The recommended Water Storage Supply is a minimum of One (1) Gallon of Water per person, per day for drinking (32 ounces per day) and sanitation. Store up; public water sources may become unavailable or contaminated during an emergency.
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January 18 Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord.    [Hebrews 12:14]

   FOOD: Tips for Building and Storing Food Reserves for an Emergency
Power outages, and emergencies that disrupt our routine lives, are unpredictable and can last an hour, a day, a week or more. We don't need to face running out of water or food, or resort to poor food quality and taste, when we know what we like, our nutritional requirements and we prepare for the expected and unexpected. Foods with a long shelf-life and don't require heat or cooking are ideal for stocking the pantry in case of an emergency. Tasty, nutritious and readily-available food is something we normally expect. Supplement your usual shopping list with canned and dehydrated (dried) food and beverage alternatives to provide necessary nutritional needs during an emergency. Remember that water is needed to re-hydrate dried foods but dried foods, generally, last longer, take less space to store, provide more servings per container, there is less nutritional loss and are not as heavy (which can be helpful if it's necessary to carry in a bug out situation). To prevent spoilage, buy food you normally eat but replace what you eat to keep your stash stocked up. Estimate 2000 calories (+/-) of food and 32 ounces of drinking water per person per day. Use the Related Link(s) for suggestions for what to buy, how much to buy, where to buy it and how to store it.
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January 19 Finally, all of you, be like-minded, be sympathetic, love one another, be compassionate and humble. Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult. On the contrary, repay evil with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing.    [1 Peter 3:8-9]

   PLANNING: Practice Good Personal Hygiene & Sanitation for Health & Others
Staying clean is not just a civil nicety. Good hygiene is a mandate for good health in good times or bad. It improves self-worth and self-confidence and helps you stay healthy, clean-looking and attractive. Poor hygiene offends others, affects interpersonal relationships, social interactions and job or school performance. It can result in debilitating illness, disease or other maladies which can sap morale or lead to incapacitation. Stock up on soap and personal hygiene products to stay clean and healthy in any situation. Wash hands frequently.
In a Survival Situation:
- Clothing: Strive to keep clothes dry & clean to stay sanitized and warm. Dirt may prevent them from breathing & insulating. Headgear prevents the primary source of heat loss. Gloves help prevent injury during manual tasks.
- Hygiene & Sanitation are important to reduce chances of illness & disease by keeping your body & mouth clean and handling food & water.
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January 20 For, "whoever would love life and see good days must keep their tongue from evil and their lips from deceitful speech. They must turn from evil and do good; they must seek peace and pursue it. For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and His ears are attentive to their prayer, but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil."    [1 Peter 3:10-12]

   PLANNING: Learn Advanced First Aid, CPR, AED & Survival Medicine
When disaster strikes, people will be injured along with the normal sicknesses & injuries. A public emergency will overwhelm, medical facilities & first responders. Whether in crisis or routine living, everyone should be ready to handle their own personal medical condition(s), first aid & serious injuries without the aid of medical personnel. Stock up on basic first aid medicines/supplies & prescriptions for family members/pets. Invest in a Survival Medicine Handbook. Know Home Remedies & grow medicinal plants to help if conventional medications are unavailable.
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January 21 Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited. Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.    [Romans 12:16-18]

   PLANNING: Develop a Personal Defense Strategy
In my everyday life, I defend myself against things or persons that could negatively impact my lifestyle and peace of mind. I have insurance. I reinforce my house with better locks and board-up options for windows and doors. I have alarms, cameras, security lighting and procedures and self-protection. And I have backup plans if first lines of defense fail. Defending ourselves, family and home or business is a right and responsibility. Harden your living/work area as I do. If firearms are included, stockpile ammunition. Consider joining or organizing a Neighborhood Watch group. Be cautious of, monitor and participate in, government activities. Be aware of what's going on around you and get better protected.
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January 22 So don't be anxious about tomorrow. God will take care of your tomorrow too. Live one day at a time.    [Matthew 6:34]

   PLANNING: Have an Emergency Communications Plan When Phones are Down
During a major catastrophic event, cell phones, telephone land lines and even satellite communications may not be available. What are your options to summon help, stay in touch or monitor what is going on in your area? Portable 2-way radios, an AM/FM/Weather Band Radio and Emergency Response Personnel (Police, Fire, Ambulance) Scanner are recommended to stay in touch with one another and the outside world. Have methods of recharging your communications electronics. Don't rely on an electronic personal phonebook. Have a printed copy of phone numbers and addresses of family, friends and important contacts.
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January 23 Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.    [Matthew 7:13-14]

   PLANNING: Navigation - Know How to Use a Map & Compass
Regardless of why and how times are spent in the great outdoors, it is essential to know the basics of map and compass navigation and basic orienteering. Also, during an emergency, along with cell phones and the grid, GPS systems may be unavailable. Knowing how to read a map and use a compass are skills that could help navigate out of a bad situation to a safe location in unfamiliar areas. Pre-Plan multiple access and escape routes. Visit the Related Link for a thorough, yet simple, explanation of how to navigate with just a compass and map.
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January 24 Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might; . . .    [Ecclesiastes 9:10]

   PLANNING: Prepare Your Vehicle for an Emergency
Chances are, if you are not at home when an emergency strikes, you will be in, or near, your vehicle. So, for the majority of us, our everyday vehicle will need to be ready to serve us in nearly any emergency big or small. Stocking all vehicles with emergency, including self-defense, supplies & keeping them well maintained will serve you well in an emergency. Never let the gas tank get below 3/4 full.
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January 25 No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.    [Hebrews 12:11]

   PLANNING: Prepare for the Next Inevitable Power Outage
Everyone has experienced some form or level of public utility outage. It's inevitable. During those times, maybe some notes were taken to prepare for the next inevitable outage? Here are some things to consider doing and acquiring before the next outage. There are many alternatives for electric power in an emergency; fire, generators, solar, batteries, fuels, water and wind are all options for being able to create electricity when the grid goes down. Acquire and keep reserve fuel containers full. Use fuel stabilizer to keep fuel fresh.
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January 26 For if you live according to your human nature, you are going to die; but if by the Spirit you put to death your sinful actions, you will live. Those who are led by God's Spirit are God's children.    [Romans 8:13-14]

   PLANNING: Finance Planning for an Emergency
Today’s global cyber attacks, affecting banks, grocery stores, power plants and other industries around the world, are warnings to be prepared for a global financial collapse. These are believed to be "proof of concepts" (tests) to determine if it can be done. Now that the tests have proven to be successful, when will the more sinister attack occur? How will you handle it?

Keep cash on hand. Consider Silver & Gold & bartering items. Diversify (not all eggs in one basket). Banks & ATMs may be affected by an emergency. Improve your financial condition (get out of debt, reduce everyday expenses). Create an Emergency Fund for unexpected expenses. Prepare options for Job/Income Loss.
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January 27 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   PLANNING: Prepare Important & Legal Documents - Life In A Box
Gather, organize and protect these documents in one location, in a waterproof and fireproof container, for easy access and retrieval if bugging-out is necessary. Both paper and digital [docs & photos] are recommended. Visit the Related Link for a complete list of documents to consider.
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[Related Link 2]
January 28 Give thanks to the God of heaven. His faithful love endures forever.    [Psalm 136:26]

   PLANNING: Plan for Fun & Games During a Crisis
When facing an emergency situation, the focus is so often on meeting physical necessities. Stress can become a major issue. Undergoing too much stress has been shown to be detrimental to physical, mental, and emotional health; something to certainly avoid during a crisis. Including forms of entertainment, in the emergency preparedness plan, can help to cope, reduce stress and lighten the mood and stay busy in an emergency or unpleasant situation. Consider non-electronic games and other forms of entertainment, easily transportable if bugging out becomes necessary. The Related Link provides some ways to do this.
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January 29 Obedience is the test of whether we really live "in God" or not. The life of a man who professes to be living in God must bear the stamp of Christ.    [1 John 2:6]

   PLANNING: How Long Should My Emergency Supplies Last?
It's recommended to have a minimum of Seven (7) Days Supply for each person in your household. Water and Shelter should be priorities. Hard as it may seem to imagine, consider a worse case scenario of being completely cut off from the outside world, including public utilities, and what you will need to live for 7 days alone. Build your supplies a little at a time to lessen the impact on your spending and finances. Gradually increasing supplies to 2 weeks, a month, 3 months or more, is a good goal. And, If you think you have enough, get more.
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January 30 You have heard the law that says, 'Love your neighbor' and hate your enemy. But I say, love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you! In that way, you will be acting as true children of your Father in heaven. For he gives his sunlight to both the evil and the good, and he sends rain on the just and the unjust alike.    [Matthew 5:43-45]

   FOOD: Reduce Food Waste and Spoilage
Roughly 50 percent of all fresh produce in the United States is thrown away — some 60 million tons (or $160 billion) worth of produce annually. Mostly, food that is perfectly good to eat. What can we do? Give it to neighbors-in-need, charitable organizations or learn how to preserve it for longer periods of time by dehydration, canning, curing, smoking, etc.
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January 31 But you are to be perfect, even as your Father in heaven is perfect.    [Matthew 5:48]

   PERSONAL CARE: Off-Grid Laundry Day
Truth be told, clothes will always get dirty and, eventually, stinky. Research options to reduce everyday costs and chances of harmful bacteria and illness and improve morale during an emergency or living off the grid. Make a washing tub from a modified 5-gallon bucket and toilet plunger or discover less-manual options. Visit the Related Link for other Laundry Plans to consider.
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February 1 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable, if anything is excellent or praiseworthy, think about such things.    [Philippians 4:6-8]

   FIRE: Upside Down Fire Building
Contrary to the traditional fire building method, this technique starts the fire quicker and allows the fire to burn longer before having to add more wood. With the traditional way of building a fire, most people start with a small pile of kindling and then add larger logs as the fire gets going. With the upside-down fire technique, build the fire from the base up before lighting it at the top. Start with the biggest logs at the bottom, then some smaller logs and then the kindling on top. After lighting the kindling on top, the fire burns down slowly through the larger logs, whilst still giving off a similar amount of heat. You probably won't have to put any more logs on the fire for two to three hours. This will reduce the amount of wood to burn each day. When done outdoors, in a camping or survival scenario, it enables you to leave the fire unattended for several hours, to search for other resources, as the initial fire burns much, much longer than a traditional campfire.
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February 2 And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.    [2 Corinthians 9:8]

      SHELTER: Build a Snow Cave For Winter Survival
The colder seasons bring a new set of survival scenarios. So, find new ways to make it out alive if caught in the wilderness. Knowing how to build a survival snow shelter is essential be it into a snow mound or on top of the snow. Know how to build one that is strong, sturdy and durable to withstand all winter weather situations. There are a few things to consider:
1 - A large snowdrift (5+ feet deep) is best.
2 - Avoid collapse; roof should be at least 1 foot thick and walls at least 8 inches thicker than the roof.
3 - The entrance should be opposite the wind direction.
4 - Avoid a location that could be wiped out by a landslide, avalanche, falling rocks, or falling trees.
5 - Poke a breathing hole (2+ inches) in the roof to prevent carbon monoxide/dioxide build-up. Keep a stick in the hole to prevent closing.
6 - Smooth the inside roof and walls to prevent dripping.
7 - Cover the inside ground with insulating material.
8 - Position a brightly colored flag of adequate size to be spotted easily for searchers.
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February 3 And don't worry about food - what to eat and drink; don't worry at all that; God will provide it for you. All mankind scratches for its daily bread, but your Heavenly Father knows your needs. He will always give you all you need from day to day if you will make the Kingdom of God your primary concern.    [Luke 12:29-31]

   FINANCES: Minimalist Living - Freedom From Stuff
Security doesn't come from having more but from needing less.
"a man there was, though some did count him mad, the more he cast away the more he had." - John Bunyan
In the world of convenience, it can be difficult to say "NO" to ourselves.
Using less of everything is a big way to help achieve self-sustainability. Even if you don’t necessarily NEED to cut back now, one day you might.
Learning the best ways of doing this is huge for emergency preparedness and a self-reliant lifestyle. Start trying to make do with a little less at a time.
Making smaller, easier changes will make you more likely to succeed in the long run.
For example, instead of throwing your food scraps away, use them to regrow food from scraps. Make an effort to use a little less water or electricity. Not using stuff we don't actually need and reusing stuff that has another life will also save money.
Once you learn how to live with just a little bit less and a mind for conservation, your lifestyle will be much more sustainable in the event you need to.
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February 4 Why are you down in the dumps, dear soul? Why are you crying the blues? Fix my eyes on God - soon I'll be praising again. He puts a smile on my face. He's my God.    [Psalm 42:5]

   FIRE: Make Homemade Waterproof Matches
You don't want your fire-starting materials to fail when you need them most. Ordinary matches don't mix well with wet conditions. Having waterproof matches is essential to outdoor activities gear. Buying them is expensive. Learn how to waterproof matches for outdoors using turpentine or melted wax or fingernail polish.
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February 5 You say you have faith, for you believe that there is one God. Good for you! Even the demons believe this, and they tremble in terror. How foolish! Can't you see that faith without good deeds is useless?    [James 2:19-20]

   NAVIGATION: Make a Compass with a Needle and Leaf
Forgot or lost your compass? No problem! Grab a leaf, a thin metal wire, a knife or piece of wool and find a puddle of water to make a Needle-Leaf compass to find your way. Stroke the knife or wool against the wire, in the same direction, 50-100 times to magnetize the wire. Place the wire on a leaf, floating in still water, to point North.
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February 6 For with God nothing shall be impossible.    [Luke 1:37]

   WATER: Make an Easy Emergency Water Filter
Drinkable water is always a priority anywhere you go. This emergency water filter will suffice if you lack other filtering supplies. Run a strip of cloth between a container filled with dirty water to a clean empty container that will receive the filtered water migrating through the cloth. Boil the filtered water, for 5+ minutes, to kill many bacteria. NOTE: Distilling is required to remove heavy metals or chemical contaminants. Filtering/Boiling water does NOT.
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February 7 Pay all your debts except the debt of love for others; never finish paying that! For if you love them, you will be obeying all of God's laws, fulfilling all his requirements.    [Romans 13:8]

   FINANCES: Debt: GET OUT NOW!
Survival means more than shelter and food. It means not having to keep looking over your shoulder for the creditors. Debt can be the single most debilitating "disease" we can have in our lives. When we have debt, we are, truly, a slave to the lender. It affects our relationships, our jobs, our joy (even though we feel that getting more stuff will make us happy). Getting out of debt frees us from the bondage it has on us. If that debt is affecting the joy of life, freedom is possible. If you have gotten into the habit of immediate gratification, spending more than you make, it won't be easy. But the habit that you made, you can break and create new and better ones. Start now!
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February 8 So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus. And because you belong to him, the power of the life-giving Spirit has freed you from the power of sin that leads to death.    [Romans 8:1-2]

   FIRE: Start a Fire with a Battery and Foil:
  • Step 1: Place foil or steel wool on a flat surface. Surround the metal with two pieces of firewood.
  • Step 2: Place a densely-packed bundle of kindling on top of the metal.
  • Step 3: Wedge a cotton ball underneath the kindling. (Tip: Soaking the cotton ball in petroleum jelly will make it burn much longer.)
  • Step 4: Contact both ends of the battery (or protruding end of a 9V battery) against the metal until the metal begins to spark and catch the cotton ball on fire.
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February 9 Those who live in the shelter of the Most High will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty. This I declare about the Lord: He alone is my refuge, my place of safety; He is my God, and I trust Him. For He will rescue you from every trap and protect you from deadly disease. He will cover you with His feathers. He will shelter you with His wings. His faithful promises are your armor and protection.    [Psalm 91:1-4]

   CORDAGE: Alternative Uses for Dental Floss:
Small and compact to carry, it serves as emergency cordage for many unconventional uses. By using multiple strands, it can rival the strength of rope. Here are alternatives to consider:
  • Wrap a broken finger to the finger next to it, so that it serves as a splint
  • Secure a swath or a sling for arm or shoulder injuries
  • Stitching cuts and hold gaping wounds together
  • Sewing
  • Braid multiple strands to create a strong rope for tying, pulling, lifting, and dragging
  • Fishing line and build a fishing net
  • Snare Trap line
  • Clothes Line
  • Fire Tinder with wax coated floss
  • Tripwire Alarm
  • Flossing teeth for oral health
  • Wrist Lanyard for knife or flashlight
  • Slicing food
  • Whipping a rope at the end to keep it from coming unraveled
  • Lashing a knife to a pole to make a spear
  • Lashing poles together to make a shelter support structure
  • Garden plants support pole line
  • Temporary seal for pipe leaks
  • Restraints (handcuffs)
[Related Link 1]
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February 10 The name of the Lord is like a strong tower. Godly people run to it and are safe.    Proverbs 18:10

   DEFENSE: Severe Weather or Severe People - Build a [Hidden] Safe Room
Our home is our castle; a safe place from the outside world. The homes of many rich, famous people have a secret that makes their home like a castle. Somewhere, in the depths of the home, is a secure room where the residents can retreat in case of home invasion, violent intruder or severe weather. But you don't have to be a movie star or a multi-millionaire to build your own version of a safe room.
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February 11 Anyone who gets wisdom loves life. Anyone who values understanding will soon succeed.    [Proverbs 19:8]

   SHELTER: Wilderness Survival Bedding
The body needs rest to function at its best. After building a survival shelter from the elements, constructing a sleeping space is recommended inside the shelter. Make a hammock from a tarp and hang between two trees or build using horizontal poles for the sleeping platform and rope, a tarp or more poles for the sleeping area. Generally (with few exceptions), any bed for sleeping in the wild should be built off the ground to avoid creepy-crawlies, on the ground, from invading your sleep space. The few exceptions include times when retaining body heat (in cold and/or wet environments) is necessary. Off-ground bedding allows for heat to escape from the space under and over the bed. On-the-ground bedding helps retain more body heat but may also attract creepy-crawlies on the ground. Covering the bedding material with a tarp or similar item or inside garbage bags will limit critter sleeping partners. A fire and smoke may help repel critters and insects. Certain scents and plants will repel some critters as well.
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February 12 Those who do what is right live without blame. Blessed are their children after them.    [Proverbs 20:7]

   PERSONAL CARE: Stop Bad Habits that WILL NOT Help You During a Crisis
Having bad habits that stand in your way could be just as detrimental to your survival as not arming yourself with the proper skills and equipment. Habits are not limited to killing us by harmful health addictions but the things we do to kill our financial freedom and self-sufficient potential. ALL habits can be overcome starting with an admission and then a determination to win the battle to overcome. Visit the Related Link for some resources of encouragement. Determine to overcome!
  • Addictions: Seek professional help but you must admit the addiciton and determine to overcome it.
  • Consumption of unhealthy foods
  • Trash vs Recycling: Reconsider what is "trash" and what is "recycle". We throw out things can can be reused or repurposed.
  • Idle Time can best be used to learn a new skill or improve others. Get off the computer, TV, game console, smart phone and get out and learn.
  • Dependency on Grocery Stores is a waste of money and time that can be used to plant a garden or raise livestock.
  • Hiring "Professionals" instead of using your intelligence to DIY (Do It Yourself) wastes money and stifles your creativity. Learn to DIY!
  • Relying on Medical Aid (doctor or hospital) for every ache, pain and sore ignores our personal understanding of our body. Find natural healing options.
  • Relying on Technology
  • Trusting Too Many People: Choose carefully who you will help and who you will trust to help you to use or obtain resources wisely.
  • Being out of Shape will put a significant strain on your body in a crisis if you have to walk long distances, lift heavy loads, do without food and water.
  • Being sloppy/ unorganized can mean the difference of grabbing the necessary supplies, in a hurry, for survival or doing without in a crisis.
[Related Link 1]
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February 13 The father of a godly child is very happy. A man who has a wise son is glad.    [Proverbs 23:24]

   DEFENSE: Essentials for Choosing the Perfect Bug Out Location
The purpose of a bug out location is to get away from the chaos and potential danger a SHTF situation can generate. Here are some things to consider when choosing a bug out location.
  • Distance - far enough away from the madness yet close enough without driving for many hours (or days)
  • Seclusion - difficult to find, off the main roads, good tree cover
  • Routes to Get There - plan at least three different routes that will ensure you arrive safely
  • Shelter - have a pre-fab shelter on site or bring something to live in comfortably
  • Water - should have a good source of water nearby that isn't too public
  • Self-Sufficiency - able to provide/sustain garden, livestock, fire wood, hunting, fishing, source of electricity (solar, wind, and/or water)
  • Climate Friendly - be sure to choose an area you feel confident you can survive, long-term, with every aspect of the climate
  • Security - easy to be defended and secured
  • Natural Threats - should not be prone to earthquakes, flooding, forest fires, tornadoes, or hurricanes
  • Red Tape - avoid government regulations like zoning, building permits, etc.
[Related Link 1]
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February 14 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.    [1 Corinthians 13:4-7]

   TOOLS: Build an Emergency (Bug-Out) Bag
There is nothing to prevent calamity, but there is plenty that can be done to prepare for it. The chief handicap in all disasters is a lack of preparation. Taking the necessary steps today, may mean the difference between life and death, tomorrow. So, what can you do today to prepare for anything tomorrow may throw at you? Build an Emergency Kit. The term "Bug-Out" refers to the process of evacuation so "Emergency Bag" is more appropriate when discussing preparation for an emergency. Whatever you may want to call it, an Emergency Bag is essential and tool in any emergency planning and preparation whether staying where you are or bugging out. Everything is together in one container and easy to transport or store. Each member of the survival group should have their own as well as each vehicle. Each bag should have a minimum of the "Eleven Cs" supplies inside. In the event of an Emergency, this bag should be one of the first things to grab and be with you through the entire emergency event. Visit the Related link for details on preparing your Emergency Bag.
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February 15 Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God.    [Romans 13:1]

   VEHICLES: Emergency Escape from a Vehicle
Whether in an accident or locked in the trunk, escape pre-planning starts with knowing the vehicle(s), what type of glass is installed, potential exit points and thinking through escape scenarios. Vehicle Escape Tool(s) for Seat Belt Cutting and Window-Breaking should be within easy reach of each vehicle occupant to help escape the vehicle as fast as possible. Some Vehicle Escape Tools may not work on all cars. Tempered Glass Windows will break. Laminated Glass Windows will not.
If you are an occupant of a submerged vehicle, remove/cut the seat belt, help others get free and escape and open or break the window or sunroof to exit and swim to the surface.
If locked in the trunk, pull the emergency release latch or kick out the backseat or the tail light to alert Police or pull to loosen any electrical cables that may disable any vehicle functions.
[Related Link 1]
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February 16 To the Lord, a king's mind is like a ditch used to water the fields. He can lead the king wherever he wants him to go.    [Proverbs 21:1]

   DEFENSE: Install & Conceal a Wall Safe to Hide & Secure Valuables & Firearms
A wall safe can be simple to install and a secure way to hide valuables. However, if installed incorrectly, criminals can simply cut out the safe and take it with them. Following the steps in the Related Link will provide a safe and secure location to store valuables and keep firearms from curious young children.
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February 17 I urge you, first of all, to pray for all people. Ask God to help them; intercede on their behalf, and give thanks for them. Pray this way for kings and all who are in authority so that we can live peaceful and quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity. This is good and pleases God our Savior, who wants everyone to be saved and to understand the truth.    [1 Timothy 2:1-4]

   FOOD: Cook a Raw Egg, in its Shell, in Campfire Ashes
When a cooking pot or pan is unavailable in the wild, the ashes of a campfire will do just fine to cook an egg that may have been found in a nest.
With a knife or rock, carefully peck a hole (1/4 - 1/2 inch) in one end of the eggshell.
If you want to spice up the taste, add salt, pepper or herbs in the hole and stir the inside with a small stick or shake the egg with your thumb over the hole.
Place the egg (hole up) on hot campfire [white] ashes (NOT red coals). No need to pack ashes completely around the egg.
The egg will cook from the bottom up so when the egg in the hole has turned white (about 40 minutes for a standard chicken egg), it's ready to eat after letting it cool.
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February 18 For the Lord's sake, obey every law of your government: those of the king as head of the state, and those of the king's officers, for He has sent them to punish all who do wrong, and to honor those who do right.    [1 Peter 2:13-14]

   FIRE: Wood Cutting/Splitting/Breaking Safety
Anyone who relies on wood heat for the home, camping or survival needs to understand precautions in cutting, splitting and breaking wood to prevent injury while saving time and physical energy.
  • Protect eyes, hands and feet, tie back long hair, remove loose-fitting jewelry, wear long sleeve shirt (tight cuffs) and long pants.
  • Learn how to properly use any tools or equipment (ax, hatchet, maul, wedge, chain saw or wood splitter) before use.
  • Keep fingers away from any tool in motion.
  • Keep children and pets away from the work area.
  • Have a second person to assist to increase safety, decrease injury and call for help if someone is injured.
  • Have others stand back when tools are in use to reduce potential injury from flying shards of wood or metal.
  • Never operate any machinery when you've been using alcohol/drugs or if you're feeling ill or very tired.

    Cutting Firewood in 2-inches slices (like a pie), instead of splitting it length-wise, may be easier on the back. It will dry faster and naturally split halfway through.

    In a camping or survival mode, tools may not be available to cut wood for a fire and resorting to "breaking" it may be necessary. Unnecessary risk is not a good idea. A sprained ankle or gash in the hand can severely hamper the ability to effect survival. As good as a fire is, getting injured in the process of gathering firewood is not worth it. Knowing how to break wood without injury is knowledge worth having.
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February 19 Therefore whoever resists the authorities resists what God has appointed, and those who resist will incur judgment.    [Romans 13:2]

   FOOD: Squirrel Pole/Noose Snare to Catch Food
Generally, squirrels would rather climb a tree at an angle, to save energy, rather than go straight up. This is where this snare pole comes in. Attach the noose (more than one is better) to a pole placed at an angle from the ground and propped against a tree where squirrels are active. The squirrel will be caught as it climbs the pole and passes through the noose. Visit the Related Link for more details on building and using this snare.
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February 20 You shall not blaspheme God, nor curse government officials - your judges and your rulers.    [Exodus 22:28]

   SIGNALLING: Using Glow Sticks to Signal for HELP
Glow sticks are OK for emergency lighting but they really shine as an emergency signaling device when used properly. Holding and shaking a glow stick is not a very effective way to signal for help. The best way is to tie a string (about 2-3 feet long) to the glow stick and swing it (like a buzz saw) in front or overhead depending on the location of the target you are trying to attract. Warming the glow stick, before use, will make it brighter but will reduce the time it remains lit. Visit the Related Link to learn the big difference between Glow Sticks and Chemical Lights.
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February 21 Remind the people to respect the government and be law-abiding, always ready to lend a helping hand. No insults, no fights. God's people should be bighearted and courteous.    [Titus 3:1-2]

   POWER: Make Your Own Fuels to Power Vehicles and Equipment
There are things we can forego when public emergencies occur and things we cannot do without. Among the latter is fuel. So, when the usual local distributors have run dry, knowing how to create fuel can be an advantage.
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February 22 It is God's will that your good lives should silence those who foolishly condemn the Gospel without knowing what it can do for them, having never experienced its power. You are free from the law, but that doesn't mean you are free to do wrong. Live as those who are free to do only God's will at all times. Show respect for everyone. Love Christians everywhere. Fear God and honor the government.    [1 Peter 2:15-17]

   FOOD: Organize Long Term Food Storage
It is not enough to just collect food and stick it away somewhere until it's needed. Knowing where and what it is and when it will expire is essential. A little planning ahead of time will save a lot of space and organizational problems in the future. Visit the Related Link to learn how.
[Related Link 1]
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February 23 Anyone who wants to be godly and loving finds life, success and honor.    [Proverbs 21:21]

   SKILL: Learn Wilderness Tracking for Food, Rescue and Evasion
Knowing how to track, to find a lost person or food source animal, may save a life but it can also help in evading an enemy. If you are the one seeking to be rescued (or being tracked), be sure that those who may seem to be your rescuers are actually your rescuers. Observe them for a period of time that satisfies you that their intentions are to your benefit and not to do you harm. Not all who find you are your rescuers so don't assume they are worthy of your trust. Visit the Related Link for a Free, no obligation PDF Download - SERE (Survival, Evasion, Resistance and Escape) Student Handbook.
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February 24 Being humble comes from having respect for the Lord. This will bring you wealth and honor and life.    [Proverbs 22:4]

   MEDICAL: Medications to Stockpile for an Emergency
Preparing for an emergency means storing, among other things, medical supplies including life-critical prescription, and over-the-counter, medications that may become unavailable during an emergency. Visit the Related Link for recommendations.
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February 25 Any enterprise is built by wise planning, becomes strong through common sense, and profits wonderfully by keeping abreast of the facts.    [Proverbs 24:3-4]

   TOOLS: Survival Tools Crafted From Ordinary Items
With every emergency or natural disaster that comes, the know-how and tactics of survival are improved, based upon ideas and knowledge handed down from survivors. Anyone can find themselves in a sticky situation without all of the gear they would like to have. But just because you aren't prepared doesn't mean you can't save the day. Don't let MacGyver have all the fun. Consider these projects to become more self-sufficient in a survival situation; thinking outside the box. Imagination is your best tool by learning to visualize things, not only for what they actually are, but what they could be. Some examples are making a "D" battery from a "AA" battery, a rain poncho from a garbage bag, a medical stretcher from clothes, a bed from cardboard boxes, an arm sling from a grocery bag, and many more ideas explained in the Related Link.
[Related Link 1]
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February 26 As water reflects your face, so your mind shows what kind of person you are.    [Proverbs 27:19]

   DEFENSE: Flare Gun for Emergency Signal or Defense
While not the most accurate, and certainly not what they are designed for, a Marine or Aviation Flare Gun can, not only signal for emergencies, but can be used for defense and can inflict a serious, if not deadly, injury to an attacking predator.
[Related Link 1]
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February 27 In the end, people appreciate honest criticism far more than flattery.    [Proverbs 28:23]

   FOOD: Want to Raise Chickens Near Town? Consider Quiet Chicken Breeds
When you are homesteading in your backyard in the suburbs or even in a small town, there is only one thing as important as egg quality when deciding what breed of chickens to raise – how much noise they make. Quiet chicken breeds do exist, and you do not have to sacrifice egg quality to raise them! If you do not want angry neighbors pounding on your door or stopping you in the driveway over the constant chatter of your beloved flock, invest in a breed known for its polite demeanor.
[Related Link 1]
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February 28 Discipline your children, and they will give you peace of mind and will make your heart glad.    [Proverbs 29:17]

   FINANCES: Why Precious Metals can be Better Investment than Stocks or Cash
Precious Metals are always a good [hedge] investment that should be part of a diversified portfolio to pay/barter for goods and services in case of a financial crisis. One of the best reasons for investing in precious metals, instead of conventional monetary vehicles, is that they are, usually, Not Monitored by, or Reported to, the IRS. Buy it to keep in your possession (hands), not vaulted. The Related Link will include information on Gold VS Silver, Coins VS Bars, the value of Junk Silver and more.
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February 29 Every word of God proves true. He is a shield to all who come to him for protection.    [Proverbs 30:5]

   TOOLS: Plastic Bottle Cap Pulley
Melt 2 equal-sized HDPE plastic bottle caps together at the flat tops. Let them cool. The flat top edge of the caps are slightly rounded which will form an indented seam around the middle of the fused caps. This will act as the pulley channel. Drill or carve a hole through the center of the caps to insert an axle. Depending on the thickness of the axle, the pulley is capable of a lifting a large amount of weight.
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March 1 Jesus replied, "Truly I tell you, if you have faith and do not doubt, not only can you do what was done to the fig tree, but also you can say to this mountain, 'Go, throw yourself into the sea,' and it will be done. If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer."    [Matthew 21:21-22]

   LIGHT & FIRE: Emergency Light, Fire Starter and Signalling from Crayons, Crisco and Other Household Items
With a bit of wick and household items like crayons, shortening/lard, butter, vaseline, olive oil, orange peel, chapstick or any items that contain oils, alcohol, kerosene, tallow or paraffin, you can make an emergency candle or lantern.
[Related Link 1]
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March 2 Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.    [Isaiah 40:30-31]

   PERSONAL CARE: The Will to Survive; Maintaining a Positive Mental Attitude
Not having this one key component has killed more people in a survival situation than any other issue we can talk about. It's, probably, the single most important aspect of survival. Whether stranded on a desert island, deep in a dense forest, or facing a desolated city, there is one hidden peril that threatens our lives in all situations, and we can't outrun or hide from it; our own thoughts. Throughout history, man has endured the unthinkable. From great explorers being shipwrecked for years in the Antarctic to those who survived the unthinkable conditions in Nazi Germany, the will to survive can often help people live through conditions that most would consider impossible. The will to survive is a very powerful thing; being able to motivate yourself during a stressful situation is a critical aspect of survival. Don't blame yourself, stay busy, have a routine, think and act positive, do fun things; these are some things to get through it. The Related Link provides methods to maintaining a positive mental attitude to keeping the mind healthy, rested, and in peak condition no matter what happens; the key during a stressful survival situation.
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March 3 For in the time of trouble He shall hide me in His pavilion; in the secret place of His tabernacle He shall hide me; He shall set me high upon a rock.    [Psalm 27:5]

   DEFENSE: Nuclear Survival Before, During and After the Blast
With the world always in turmoil and many rogue nations gathering plutonium for nuclear warheads, nuclear preparedness should never be ignored. Learn how to stay safe before, during and after "the blast". Know where emergency shelters are located. Get to the lowest level, and center, of the strongest nearby shelter and away from windows. If unable to find shelter, lay flat, face down, looking at the ground with hands on your head. After the shockwave, promptly seek shelter to avoid the coming fallout. Do not leave shelter until it's safe. Remove clothes and wash body ASAP to limit fallout contamination.
[Related Link 1]
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March 4 God is my strong fortress. He clears the path I need to take. He makes my feet as steady as those of a deer. Even on steep mountains he keeps me from falling. He trains me for war so that my arms can bend the most powerful bow.    [2 Samuel 22:33-35]

   TOOLS: Make Wilderness Survival Bow & Arrows From Scratch
What happens when your next meal moves faster than you? Build a faster weapon! Here are videos and detailed instructions on how to catch meat and defend yourself in a survival situation.
[Related Link 1]
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March 5 I pray that God, who gives hope, will bless you with complete happiness and peace because of your faith. And may the power of the Holy Spirit fill you with hope.    [Romans 15:13]

   PLANNING: Tips for Sheltering in Place
Sheltering in place is [hopefully] a short-term solution to address a biological, chemical, nuclear, radiological or civil unrest threat. The objective is to protect those of us inside, from the bad stuff outside. Pre-planning should stock the "shelter" with water, food and other supplies for, at least, a 2-week stay without venturing outside. Additional tips, in the Related Link, will help take the necessary actions to effectively shelter in place.
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March 6 Look at those who are honest and good, for a wonderful future awaits those who love peace.    [Psalm 37:37]

   DEFENSE: Pandemic/Riot Mask - Make One or Learn What to Buy
Learn how to purchase a Professional Gas Mask or make a full-face mask to filter the air in an emergency situation.
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March 7 This is how we know who the children of God are and who the children of the devil are: Anyone who does not do what is right is not God's child, nor is anyone who does not love their brother and sister.    [1 John 3:10]

   HEALTH: Wild Lettuce for a Healthy Painkiller Alternative
From injury to disease, pain is a very common ailment or symptom that can take down the toughest of the tough. Alternative solutions help to fight the epidemic with opiate dependency. Here is one alternative.
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March 8 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   DEFENSE: Can You Survive the Legal Aftermath of a Self Defense Incident?
We see this scenario play out regularly across the country. A legally armed citizen uses a gun in self-defense, and then appears in court to prove that the legal requirements were met to justify using deadly force. When the court rules that the citizen complied with the law and is not guilty of any crime, life just goes on, right? NOT! What's next could devastate that citizen's life but there is help available as an ACLDN Member. Learn how to protect yourself.
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March 9 The Lord will make you the head, not the tail. If you pay attention to the commands of the Lord your God that I give you this day and carefully follow them, you will always be at the top, never at the bottom.    [Deuteronomy 28:13]

   FOOD: Edible Landscaping: What Is It, How to Design It and What Plants to Choose
Edible landscaping refers to mixing food plants in with your ornamental ones, to create a setting that is not only visually appealing, but productive as well. The Related Link will provide suggestions for How to Design It and What Plants to Choose.
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March 10 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   TOOLS: Learn to Weld with a 12v Battery, Jumper Cables and Carbon Rod
Knowing how to weld with batteries can be a very useful skill in an emergency off road situation or when there is no AC power.
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March 11 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   FOOD: Cook with the Sun
When we do not have a stove to heat with wood or turn on with the flip of a switch, we have to find a way to cook. Additionally, using natural cooking solutions saves money and reduces dependence on "the grid". Our ancestors found a way to cook . . . even in winter. These Videos, Podcasts and articles explain how to cook good healthy food for a fraction of the cost of conventional cooking methods.
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March 12 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

  
DEFENSE: Don't Let a Potential Attacker Get Closer than 21 Feet
21 feet may seem far away, but the 21 Feet Rule (Tueller Principal) proves that an attacker can reach an "aware" target victim in less than 2 seconds from 21 feet before the victim can react. Being Situationally Aware and understanding Pre-Attack Indicators should help keep a safe distance and get ready to retreat/defend. Keep a safe distance, run, scare away, or take out the attacker before they get that close.
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March 13 The Lord Himself goes before you and will be with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.    [Deuteronomy 31:8]

   DEFENSE: How to Survive an Active Shooting Encounter
High anxiety is today's normal and public shootings are no longer unusual. Learn to react properly (don't panic) to an Active Shooting Encounter. Learn to be Situationally Aware and, if this happens to you, Run or Hide or Fight. Visit the Related Link for details and watch the video from DHS.
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March 14 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   HEALTH: Honey for the Emergency Food Pantry and its Power to Heal
The Greeks had an uncanny ability when it came to healing the body, and the medicinal purposes of many of nature’s wonders. Bees were at the top of the list when it came to natural wonders that also contained healing powers. Honey is an important ingredient in Emergency Planning for food and healing.
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March 15 Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to them, "Go in peace; keep warm and well fed," but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it?    James 2:15-16

   FOOD: Let's Make Hardtack; An Emergency Food That Lasts for Years
. . . an easy-to-make hard cracker made from flour, salt, and water will last for years and through temperature extremes. Once taken on long sea voyages and carried by soldiers on long military campaigns it was called things like sea biscuit and sheet iron.
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March 16 For God so [greatly] loved and dearly prized the world, that He [even] gave His [One and] only begotten Son, so that whoever believes and trusts in Him [as Savior] shall not perish, but have eternal life.    [John 3:16]

   DEFENSE: Reloading Ammunition; The Other Precious Metal
Reloading ammunition can be a real money saver if you are an avid shooter or storing up for "that rainy day". But it is also a nice skill to have when commercial ammunition becomes scarce or you're not near a store. Here are some videos and articles on reloading, casting your own lead bullets, opportunities to buy your own equipment and information on Black Powder Firearms.
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March 17 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

      WATER: Harvest Water by Fog and Dew Catching
A fog catcher is a stretched-out piece of mesh/screen over copper piping which allows fog to condensate into droplets of water and flow down to be collected into a bucket. Additionally, loose pieces of cloth, tied to the leg calves can absorb dew on grass while walking through a grassy field. More ideas are included in the Related Link.
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March 18 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   DEFENSE: Camouflage Home and Outside Amenities From Public View, Including Google Maps
Some people display their homes as if waiting to be featured in Homes and Gardens magazine. If you are not one of these, maybe the preference is to keep some things out of sight as people pass by. Whether a goal includes camouflaging your home completely, diminishing your home and yard's visibility or putting limitations on people's ability to enter your yard, there are a wide variety of natural and artificial options to consider.
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March 19 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   DEFENSE: Stay Alive When You're In the Wrong Place at the Wrong Time
With our First Amendment freedom of speech and expression, a crowd of people can flood the streets as a form of civil/peaceful protest. However, a civil protest can turn into a full-scale riot as tensions build, usually fueled and led by out-of-state antagonistic radical groups, brought in from other parts of the country, whose sole intention is to incite violence within an already tense situation. Here's what to do if caught in the midst of all this chaos.
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March 20 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   COMPANIONS: Animals for Emergency Companions and Defense
For some, a pet may be the only Survival Companion they will want or will be included as a valued member of the team. Dogs, and other animals, are natural guardians and can be trained for other tasks. Unlike humans, pets are not likely to turn against you and are not lazy if treated well.
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March 21 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   FOOD: Benefits of Adding a Pellet Rifle to Your Arsenal
When I was a child, I was given a Pellet rifle to learn to shoot by plinking cans and targets. Then, when I was a teenager, my father bought me a .22 rifle and my pellet rifle was quickly forgotten when I saw that real bullets were superior to pellets. Now, older and wiser, I can think of several reasons why my old pellet rifle can be a useful tool for me. A pellet rifle is nearly silent but can dispatch small game for food or impart a physical warning to larger animals to discourage them from returning.
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March 22 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   TOOLS: Always Keep a Survival Guide Nearby
An expert survivalist may not need a guide but the average person may have a memory lapse of personal survival skills, especially during times of stress. While everyone should regularly practice their survival skills, always keeping a Survival Guide nearby will come in handy to help others or to refresh the memory during a stressful situation or just brain farts. A quality guide should include first aid, shelter and fire building, water collection and decontamination, wild edibles and catching game, defense, signaling and other survival topics. My 2 favorite Survival Guides, due to their comprehensive content and compact size, are the SAS Survival Guide and the wallet-size Tiny Survival Guide.
[Related Link 1]
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March 23 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   FOOD: Beekeeping to Maintain a Renewable Food Source
The hobby of beekeeping, also called apiculture, started on a wide scale in the U.S. during World War II when sugar was tightly rationed. Now it can be a very profitable, healthy and environmental venture. Honey is also a valuable bartering item.
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March 24 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   WATER: Off-Grid or Backup Water Pumping and Supply Systems
During a crisis, public water sources could become contaminated accidentally or intentionally. And an off-grid water source can be challenging. A long-term water storage program should include a renewable water source in an overall Emergency or Off-the-grid Plan. Additionally, it's helpful if there is an automated method of moving the water from the source to a better-accessible location. Here are some options to consider.
[Related Link 1]
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March 25 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   PLANNING: Emergency Prepping for Seniors and Mobility Challenged
When planning for emergencies, we must consider every scenario that could possibly take place. Seniors, persons who are mobility-challenged or their Caregivers must prepare for, and know how to handle, a disaster situation just like anyone else with the understanding that there will be additional considerations.
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March 26 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   TOOLS: Evacuation From High-Rise Buildings and Through Walls
Most buildings have an evacuation plan. But when the initial plan falls apart, you need to have a ready-to-go emergency kit nearby. Even ground-level structures may require unconventional exiting when exits are blocked. Having a kit with the right items can make a huge difference in getting out of a building and avoiding injury or death.
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March 27 No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us.    [1 John 4:12]

Click to Enlarge    SHELTER: Know Household Safe Points for Surviving Natural Disasters
Surviving a natural disaster with safe points in the home may vary depending upon different regions of the country. It's important to be aware of safe points in the house and prepare for surviving there during a natural disaster of any type. Know, or build, your household safe point.
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March 28 If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.    [Romans 12:20]

   TOOLS: Unusual Uses for Aluminum Foil
In a crisis, make the most of everything you have; that means getting a little creative. Things like paracord and duct tape have fairly obvious uses, but other items may require a little more critical thinking. Today let's take a look at one of the most common items in the kitchen — aluminum foil. Make containers to eat/drink from, collect or boil water or cook, solar oven, fishing lure or signal device, sharpen knives/scissors, scrub cookware, resize batteries, transport fire coals, ground cover, insulation, and more.
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March 29 We're being careful so that no one can claim that we are mishandling the funds we've collected. For we are taking every precaution to remain aboveboard - not only in the Lord's eyes, but in the eyes of the people too.    [2 Corinthians 8:20-21]

   FIRE: Build a Dakota Fire Pit for Stealth or High Wind
Building a fire in a hole in the ground (Dakota Fire Pit) is useful for windy conditions, reduces detection (if stealth is desired) and can be closer to heat a shelter. It's also easy to put the fire out, filling the hole with dirt, when ready.
  • Dig a hole on the windy side of a tree (to disperse smoke).
  • Dig it one foot deep with a diameter slightly smaller than your cooking pot/pan.
  • Make the bottom of the hole (fire area) larger than the top.
  • Surround the top of the hole with rocks to support the cooking pot/pan.
  • Dig a smaller second hole (open to the wind) about 10 inches from the first hole that tunnels at an angle so it connects with the bottom of the first hole.
  • Use small twiggs and pine cones as fuel for the fire.
[Related Link 1]
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March 30 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   FOOD: Learn to Build Simple Snares And Traps for Survival Food
Would you know how to hunt for food during a long-term emergency, grid down scenario or wilderness survival? Hunting with Snares and deadfalls will be your best passive methods for acquiring meat for food; working for you when you're not there. Here's how.
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March 31 Take care to live in Me, and let Me live in you. For a branch can't produce fruit when severed from the vine. Nor can you be fruitful apart from Me. Yes, I am the Vine; you are the branches. Whoever lives in Me and I in him shall produce a large crop of fruit. For apart from Me you can't do a thing.    [John 15:4-5]

   WATER: Get Drinking Water From Vines & Bamboo
Green Bamboo and non-poisonous vines are good sources of fresh drinking water during late winter, spring and summer when the sap is running. But there are some rules to follow before drinking this water and a skill to help the water flow better. Visit the Related Links for details.
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April 1 There is surely a future hope for you, and your hope will not be cut off.    [Proverbs 23:18]

   WATER: Harvesting Rainwater for Home, Personal, Drinking and Landscaping Use
Harvesting rainwater is the process of catching rainwater in tanks for use in the home and landscaping. It is a process that has been around for thousands of years and, as our distant ancestors knew, it's one that has many benefits, including an emergency water supply and Water Bill savings.
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April 2 All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. It is by His great mercy that we have been born again, because God raised Jesus Christ from the dead. Now we live with great expectation.    [1 Peter 1:3]

   FOOD: Fishing With a Soda Can Reel, Hook & Lure
The wilderness isn't known for grocery stores and restaurants, so if you accidentally wander off to the woods without a trusty fishing pole, are you out of luck? Tie and wrap thin cordage (fishing line) around the can as a reel. With your multi-tool, cut the pull-tab into a hook with a barb and punch a hole into the drinking hole seal flap as a lure on the line near the hook. Tie a small rock (sinker) below the hook and lure and a floating piece of wood a foot or so above the hook as a float/bobber. Then shove a stick into the drinking hole as a handle.
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April 3 Jesus said, "I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in Me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in Me will never die. Do you believe this?"    [John 11:25-26]

   TOOLS: Survival Uses for Moss
Found in nearly any environment, moss has many properties for survival use:
  • Wound Dressing - Sphagnum Moss or peat moss, characterized by its tiny star-shaped leaves and pale green color, is a natural source of iodine. After cleaning the wound, apply the moss as a bandage. Change the moss out each time you clean the wound.
  • Drinking Water (Sphagnum moss) by scooping up a handful and wringing water into your mouth
  • Water filter (Sphagnum moss) because of the high acidity and the antibacterial properties
  • Fire Tinder IF the moss is dry
  • Fire carrier to transport coals from one location to another
  • Bedding Insulation IF the moss is dry, otherwise it could be infested with bugs
  • Survival Food - most mosses are good for food, others are not. Do the research.
  • Signalling for Help - throw wet moss on a fire to create thick white smoke
  • Waterproof Roof - Applied to the roof of a shelter will keep the shelter's inside dry.
  • Insulator for shelter
  • Camouflage a shelter - place the entrance at the rear where it won't be visible and don't wear an obvious path to it.
  • Navigation (NOT recommended)
[Related Link 1]
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April 4 The Lord is near to all who call on Him, to all who call on Him in truth. He fulfills the desires of those who fear Him; He hears their cry and saves them.    [Psalm 145:18-19]

   TOOLS: Improve Insect Control Naturally. Build a Better Bat House.
Attract bats to your property and enjoy the natural insect control they will provide this insect season. Existing bat colonies, in undesirable locations, can be encouraged to roost elsewhere with the right attraction.
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April 5 Don't you yet understand? Don't you know by now that the everlasting God, the Creator of the farthest parts of the earth, never grows faint or weary? No one can fathom the depths of His understanding. He gives power to the tired and worn out, and strength to the weak.    [Isaiah 40:28-29]

   TOOLS: The Many Uses for Baking Soda
If your home is like most, you have a few boxes of baking soda laying around; one in the refrigerator, one in the cupboard, and maybe one in the pantry. It may be one of the least costly things you have in your home that will do so much. Let’s take a look.
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April 6 Lord, you have given me your shield to protect me. It is your help that has made me great. You cleared a path for my feet so that I could walk without stumbling.    [2 Samuel 22:36-37]

   DEFENSE: Exterior Home Security Without the Fortress Look
Fortifying home security doesn't mean the home should look like a fortress. The best security is actually when it doesn't look like a fortress. Practical softscaping, hardscaping, and few other tricks can keep would-be intruders at bay better than a moat. Bushes, evergreen trees and fencing can deter visual and access intrusion.
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April 7 . . . for I know the one in whom I trust, and I am sure that He is able to safely guard all that I have given Him until the day of His return.    [2 Timothy 1:12]

   PERSONAL CARE: Stay Clean Without Getting in the Shower or Using Soap
Visit the Related Link to read about some bathing options to stay clean even when taking a shower or bath is not available or practical or time and resources are at a minimum or the place is inconvenient.
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April 8 Everything is possible for one who believes.    [Mark 9:23]

   DEFENSE: Guide for Travel Preparation, Safety and Security
Even during seemingly harmless situations, travelers need to be, what security professionals describe as, "situationally aware." It's the foundation of personal security. It extends to every minute you're away from home -- whether walking down a street, riding a bus or shopping in a crowded market. Predators look like us and act like us but they are, actually, looking for their next victim.
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April 9 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   FOOD: Surviving on Reptiles and Amphibians
When every other source of food is depleted, look to the ground; look to the things that creep. Reptiles and Amphibians, collectively called "herpetofauna," (creeping things) are extremely abundant in many areas and can provide a ready and stable food source. On the whole, aquatic environments are much more productive [to find food] than terrestrial (land) habitats so finding a body of water like ponds, wetlands or any other standing or slow moving water will produce quicker food source results. Being educated on wild [plant & animal] food sources in your area will help you survive while avoiding illness or death.
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April 10 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   PERSONAL CARE: Natural Sun Protection Tips
The great outdoors is tons of fun, but you shouldn’t be skipping out on sun protection when you’re out there. Before you feel the burn or see how the heat has damaged your skin, protect your skin with the help of these important tips and Natural Sun Block and Burn Remedies.
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April 11 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   CLOTHING: Learn to Make Your Own Clothes
There are many detailed resources available in bookstores and on the web to learn how to make clothing as well as preliminary skills needed before making the clothes. Growing and preparing cotton, raising and sheering sheep and preparing their wool and [hunting and] killing animals and preparing their hides are excellent self-reliance skills. Additionally, making clothes from pre-made materials is an art unto itself which can be assisted with prepared patterns. These skills take lots of time and patience to achieve the final product but also produce a grand sense of accomplishment.
[Related Link 1]
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April 12 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   FOOD: Primitive Cooking Methods Worth Knowing
Learning to cook with a campfire, without man-made utensils, can be one of the most relaxing and rewarding experiences. Whether you're camping or in an actual emergency situation, common primitive cooking methods (ash, broiling, hot stone, plank, steam pit, spit or clay) are skills worth knowing. The first skills necessary, however, are knowing how to start and build a fire. Then choose the primitive cooking method appropriate for the situation, available resources and weather.
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April 13 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   FOOD: Learn to Preserve Foods by Canning, Dehydration, Salting, Smoking, Aging & Curing
Long-Term preservation of surplus foods is essential for preparing for a food shortage event. Research is highly recommended for proper food preparation and storage and it's important to know and record/label the shelf life of the foods prepared using these techniques. Even fresh vegetables and fruits can be preserved for weeks by sealing in a jar or plastic (ziplock) bag after adding a little water.
[Related Link 1]
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April 14 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   FOOD: Follow Good Diet and Nutrition Guidelines
Diet, no doubt, has a major impact on a person's health. You eat poorly, you feel poorly; you eat better, you feel better. But is there a formula for eating better? There are many environmental, physiological and psychological factors that contribute to one's health and a "diet-for-all" is impractical. But there are some basic universal guidelines to attain and maintain healthy bodies and brains. Researching the regimen that works for you should be an on-going journey to find your perfect diet and as the body changes with age.
[Related Link 1]
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April 15 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   PLANNING: Regularly Practice and Update Your Emergency Plan With ALL Participants
As with any plan, it is worthless unless it is communicated, tried and practiced, on a regular, periodic, scheduled basis, with everyone in the family or business. Preparing and rehearsing an Emergency Plan Document is essential to preparation. Don't rely on memory or ability to calmly handle an actual emergency when anxiety and panic are normal responses. Like anything, practice makes perfect. When the time comes and the brain wants to panic, a well-documented and rehearsed plan will provide structure, calm and clear thinking; reducing anxiety during an actual emergency.
  • Include provisions for those with special needs, the elderly and pets.
  • Share, and periodically review and practice it, with your support network. Adjust and update as needed.
  • Review your plan when current events are happening that could escalate into a real bad situation.
[Related Link 1]
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April 16 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   FOOD: Identifying Animal Poop, Tracks and Signs
Knowing what animals occupy your area helps to prepare for the hunting techniques specific to the animal. Two methods of identifying native wildlife are identifying their poop (scat) and paw prints/tracks. A careful eye, a guarded sniff and (sometimes) a careful inspection using disposable gloves can often reveal the species responsible for droppings. Additionally, some animals leave marks on the ground or trees that can help further identify them. Native animal education is not only good for hunting but safety. Obtaining easy-to-carry publications, for identification, will help.
[Related Link 1]
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April 17 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   FOOD: Get Your Outdoor Garden Started
Tis the season for planting. What are you going to grow in your garden this year to be more self-sufficient?
Gardening may seem like a chore to many people, but for those who love to get our hands in the dirt, it can be a rewarding, zen-like experience. But the actual growing part is easy. The steps taken when planning a garden are key to a successful season. Because the secret to a bountiful garden starts long before blooms or fruit produce. Let's garden!
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April 18 If anyone thinks they are something when they are not, they deceive themselves. Each one should test their own actions. Then they can take pride in themselves alone, without comparing themselves to someone else, for each one should carry their own load.    [Galatians 6:3-5]

   PERSONAL CARE: DIY Natural, Chemical-Free Insect Repellents and Pest Control
Bug season is in full swing. Learn natural ways to stop the bites, annoyances and destruction. Unwanted critters can make their abode in our abode during all seasons but no more obvious and active than the warmer time of year. Use these resources to Be Proactive to Prevent critters from entering and rid yourself of annoying and destructive critters. Make your own natural Pest Control and Insect Repellent products.
[Related Link 1]
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April 19 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   CLOTHING: Know How to Make Primitive Footwear
We live and die by our feet and, unless the bottoms of your feet are made of shoe leather, you'll need to know how to make foot protection in case something happens to your shoes or boots. Visit the related link to learn how to make them out of items found in the wild or urban setting.
[Related Link 1]
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April 20 Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom. But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.    [James 3:13-18]

   SKILLS: Learn to Survive At Sea
You never know when you may be stranded in the ocean. Whether it be a plane crash, a sinking boat, or getting swept out to sea, the isolation of being stranded in the ocean can be a frightening experience. Follow these survival tips to keep yourself alive in the open ocean until rescue comes.
1. Minimize risk and conserve energy is top priority
2. Use life raft/jacket or latch together any floating debris to stay afloat.
3. Weigh Options: Only paddle for shore/land if you have an idea of where you're going. Stay put if you feel sure that someone will be searching for you
4. Protection: Scan wrecks for tarps, jackets, wool, waterproof, windproof clothing, etc. Protect yourself from wetness, wind, sun, and temperature. Dip clothes in water under hot sun to keep cool. Shade eyes or make goggles. Grease can be used as a sun-screen but it's best to stay out of the sun.
5. Stay Hydrated: Collect rainwater. Make a Solar Still to make potable (drinking) water from seawater. Drink as little as possible but stay hydrated. Avoid drinking seawater; 32 ounces is risky but not life threatening if no fresh water is available. Avoid sweating. Conserve energy.
6. Watch for birds; they are a good sign that land is near. Generally speaking wind blows towards land during the day, and out to sea at night.
[Related Link 1]
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April 21 Lazy hands make for poverty, but diligent hands bring wealth.    [Proverbs 10:4]

   MEDICAL: Sterilizing Medical Supplies
While most medical supplies come sterilized, that is no longer the case once used. Some medical supplies (even disposable items) can be reused but should be re-sterilized before reuse. Visit the Related Link for some methods for re-sterilization including alcohol or hydrogen peroxide soaks, boiling, steam, ultra-violet and more.
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April 22 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   TOOLS: Scavenging Survival Items from Vehicles
No post-apocalyptic movie is complete without the stripped hulks of a few cars and trucks lying around. But modern everyday life is no different. Useful things can come from any abandoned vehicle such as tools, wiring, tires, battery, fuels, mirrors, and the body itself (for shelter and projects). In a serious emergency, your car, or an abandoned one, may become the victim and life saver. Just for safety's sake, make very sure a vehicle is truly abandoned before you get your pliers out and start ripping bits off. Once you're certain nobody's coming back for it, though, start scavenging. Bicycles and motorcycles; any vehicles, are also up for grabs. The Related Link provides some suggestions:
[Related Link 1]
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April 23 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   PERSONAL CARE: Rodent-Proofing, Control and Elimination to Prevent Disease
Rodents are very effective carriers of many diseases in their nests, droppings, saliva, bites, etc. Controlling them is essential for a clean environment. Only a 1/4" opening is enough to allow these pests to enter. Rodent-proofing a home requires careful evaluation for points of entry from the level of the foundation to the roofline. Use metal-mesh scouring pads (not steel wool), galvanized window screen, install vent guards, trim back tree limbs, lay a 3-feet gravel barrier from the foundation to prevent tunneling, improve indoor and outdoor sanitation (trash, pet food, secure all food/water, firewood stacked away from house, trees/shrubs trimmed from touching the house and ground, remove climbing (ivy) plants from walls, fix leaky faucets, remove unused garden fruits/vegs, etc. - think like a rat). Set snap or glue traps to catch existing rodents.
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April 24 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   DEFENSE: Fire-Harden Wood for Defense or Hunting
Carrying a long stick, made from hard wood, like Oak, in the wilderness helps with walking rough terrain but sharpening the top end into a point also makes it a formidable defense weapon to keep potential dangers at a distance or catch food. Hardening the point with fire will help keep it sharp. Rotate the point area just above the flames of a small fire to dry out the wood. Once it starts to get a "toasted" look, you're done. For a point of reference, pretend trying to toast the perfect marshmallow over those flames. It should be golden brown, with little to no black char. Sharpened the point again after hardening. Once done, rub plant or animal oil on the spear point. Peel the bark from the shaft, or leave it in place for gripping. Re-harden if the point becomes dull with use.
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April 25 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   DEFENSE: Escape from Dangerous Forest Animals
Observing animals in the wild can be a great experience, but an encounter with a wild animal can turn dangerous quickly. Many wild animals in the forest will attack humans if provoked. The best way to avoid an attack from a forest animal is to leave them alone. However, if you do find yourself in a dangerous situation, there are tactics you can use to escape and get to safety. Visit the Related Link for details.
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April 26 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   PLANNING: Know When it's Time to Bug Out (Evacuate)
During an emergency, you may need to decide whether to stay where you are or leave (Bug Out). Too soon could waste time and resources. Too late could find yourself in a worse position than if you had stayed. Stay informed of the situation (via news) to make an educated decision. The acronym "R.E.D.O.U.T." may give some idea of when it's time to implement your bug out plan. Any one, or combination, may send you packin'.
    Resources are almost gone - life-sustaining supplies are dangerously low, and no way of replenishing or obtaining more in the area
    Environment no longer safe - a flood, wild-fire, hurricane, chemical spill, mass rioting/looting, etc. making the area unsafe to stay in
    Destination is safer than where you are
    Overwhelming force against you - potentially dangerous and determined groups that are a real safety threat to you or your family
    Unprepared for the situation - your preparations do not address this kind of event
    Threat is increasing - the danger is growing in size or strength or getting, uncomfortably, closer
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April 27 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   SHELTER: Homes can Survive a Wildfire. Here's How.
Here is research about how homes ignite during wildfires, and the actions homeowners can take to help their home survive the impacts of wildfire flames and embers. Basically, keep grass cut, structures, trees and flammables 30-100 feet from the house and keep a 100-feet long garden hose attached to an outside faucet at all times. Visit the Related Link for details.
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April 28 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   DEFENSE: Making and Using Improvised Weapons
We all know that purchasing a weapon can cost a lot of hard-earned money. Fortunately, you can make your own brutal weapons without breaking the bank. When commercial weapons or ammo are scarce or you're forced to leave your supplies behind, improvised weapons may be your only choice for self-defense. We can never be sure that we are safe or complacent about our security so it’s better to be protected than sorry. Use your imagination and what's around you and practice for efficiency.
[Related Link 1]
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April 29 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   FOOD: Identify Edible Insects and Eat Like a King
It may sound unappetizing but pound for pound, insects are more valuable and nutritious than any meat. But knowing how to identify edible insects and stay away from the ones that could kill is a skill worth learning. Sometimes it pays to think small . . . especially when it comes to eating in a survival situation.
[Related Link 1]
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April 30 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   PERSONAL CARE: Sophisticated Eco-Friendly, Off-Grid, or Emergency Toilet Alternatives
Research some solutions wherever a toilet is needed but can't connect to a septic tank or public sewer. Compost, electric or propane incinerators and DIY options are considered in the Related Link.
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May 1 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   NATURE: All About Snakes for Survival
As one of the stealthiest critters on earth, many who live in the suburbs or trek through the woods have, probably, come in close proximity to them, aware or unaware. Understanding snakes is crucial in survival from their physical makeup to their habitat. Being able to identify a poisonous from non-poisonous could be life-saving and in a survival situation they many be a necessary source of food. It will be helpful to research the native snakes to the area where you are located. Visit the related links for details.
[Related Link 1]
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May 2 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   TOOLS: Learn to Think Outside the Box for Emergencies and Survival
Emergency planning is mostly about education and developing a think-outside-the-box view of what most would consider obvious. Learn to visualize things, not only for what they actually are, but what they could be. For example, visualize an aluminum can fashioned into a stove, lantern, cooking pot, canteen, cutting tool, a scoop, fishing lure, perimeter alarm, signal mirror, a whistle or melted to form other tools. Can you think of others? As you see objects in your everyday travels, visualize them as something they are not.
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May 3 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   POWER: DIY Solar Projects to Save Money on Power, Light and Heating
The Sun is a great benefit to a home – it’s good for the environment, it can save money on home electric, a source of lighting, backup power during a power outage and a source of heat for the home's interior or water.
[Related Link 1]
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May 4 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   TOOLS: Why Use an "Old-School" Push Lawn Mower?
An old school mower may sound kind of boring, but I was excited to acquire one when my friend pulled it from a dark corner of his shed. So why do I think mowing the “old school” way may be better than a self-propelled or riding mower? It's free to use, easy to use, they don't pollute, maintenance is simple, fewer accidents and you get a surprise workout. Additionally, it will still run during fuel shortages and power outages.
[Related Link 1]
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May 5 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   WATER: Transpiration Bag for Collecting Water from Plants
Transpiration is the process in which plant life collects distributes and finally evaporates/dispels moisture from certain parts of the plant in particular the leaves. Transpiration bags work similar to a solar still, but with considerably less effort. A clear plastic trash bag is placed around a leafy branch, in direct sunlight, and sealed tightly with cordage. Throughout the day, it will collect water vapor that will condense on the inside and run down to form a puddle at its lowest point. Drinking water right from the bag should be safe but it's always best to filter and boil it first, when possible, before ingesting.
Avoid gathering water from poisonous trees/plants to avoid illness or allergic reaction.
[Related Link 1]
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May 6 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   FINANCES: Teach Your Children the Fundamentals of Money and Finance
In an attempt to protect children from the "real world", parents often fail to teach important lessons about money and finance. Discussing the topic of responsible money management openly, even at the family dinner table, can help children understand the "whys" and "hows" of budgeting, saving and investing with real-life examples. Soliciting their input can also help communicate and clear up any questions or confusions they may have. It's also one of the best ways to get a child interested in the concept of financial responsibility. Most parents understand the importance of teaching their children about money and finance, but many don’t know how to do so or where to start. To help, here are some links for teaching children the important life concepts of money and financial responsibility.
[Related Link 1]
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May 7 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   TOOLS: Bottle Cap Fish Scaler
If planning on filleting a fish and leaving the skin on, the scales (depending on the type of fish) may have to be removed. Find a strong 8" stick, about 3/4" in diameter. Gather some bottle caps and screw or nail them onto the stick. The sharp, ribbed texture of the bottom of the caps will make quick work to remove the scales from the fish.
[Related Link 1]
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May 8 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   FOOD: Dashboard Dehydrator
This is likely not something to do with a brand new car but in a survival situation, you do what you have to do. The enclosed interior of a vehicle gets pretty toasty, even in cool outside temperatures, when the sun is bearing down on it. On sunny days, placing pre-dehydrated food on the dashboard under the windshield will dehydrate meat and vegetables. Cut the food into small pieces no more than 1/4" thick and raise it off the dashboard to allow air to circulate above and below the food. Ventilation is needed during the process so crack the windows a bit but fill the open windows space with screen or some type of mesh material to keep bugs out. Generally, meats will dehydrate in 6-8 hours and fruits/vegetables sooner.
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May 9 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   TOOLS: Pantyhose Survival
From cordage to water filtering and many things in between and both sides, pantyhose have awesome potential as a multi-purpose tool and deserve a place in every Emergency Kit. Visit the Related Link for a list.
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May 10 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   CLOTHING: Stretch Boots/Shoes With Ice
Tight boots or shoes can injure your feet (blisters, pain). Stretching them may make them more comfortable. This can be done by placing a plastic freezer bag of water (1/4 - 1/2 full) in each shoe/boot and placing them in the freezer. The water will expand as it freezes (4-8 hours) and stretch the boots/shoes. After that time, allow the ice to melt for easy removal and to avoid damaging the shoe/boot.
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May 11 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   TOOLS: Soda Can Pull Tab Line Tensioner
A taut-line hitch is used to keep tension on a guy-line that is attached to a tent or tarp. However, if you don’t know this knot or forget how to tie it, and don’t have a tensioner included in the tie-down kit, you can make an impromptu tensioner using a soda can pull-tab as shown in the photo and described in the Related Link.
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May 12 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   POWER: Kerosene as an Emergency Alternative to Diesel or Gasoline
Kerosene is one of the first by-products of shale or coal. When coal or shale is heated up, it begins to "sweat" which can be collected and distilled; this is Kerosene. While making Kerosene at home can be challenging, using [k1] Kerosene, in a Diesel or Gasoline engine, is an alternative in an emergency situation.
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May 13 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   TRANSPORTATION: The Best Bug-Out Vehicle Could Be a Bicycle
In an evacuation (bug-out) situation, a bicycle, motorcycle or scooter is ideal to maneuver through congested traffic and around areas where other vehicles may be challenged. In the case of a bicycle, its lightweight frame, handlebars and easy-remove front wheel are excellent to create a makeshift shelter by placing a tarp over the bicycle components. If you are so inclined, small pop-up tent trailers are available to pull behind a bicycle. Equipping your 2-wheeled, or ATV, vehicle prepared for an emergency is a great backup alternative to have in place.
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May 14 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   DIY: Recycle Wooden Pallets to Make Nearly Anything
Wooden pallets are common near stores, industrial parks and dumpster areas. Their size, shape, durability and construction make them ideal for nearly any project as-is or broken down for other purposes. From sheds to furniture, decks or shelving, the re-use of the simple Wooden Pallet is limited only by ones imagination. Generally, they are free and come with the nails needed to reshape its next life. Pick your project then search the web for building instructions or come up with your own. The possibilities are endless.
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May 15 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   SHELTER: DIY Bed Sheet Hammock
Want to sleep off the ground because of dampness, insects or a host of other reasons? A hammock can serve this purpose very well. Don't have one? Make one from a plain old bed sheet, tablecloth, tarp, poncho or a sleeping bag. Visit the Related Link for detailed instructions and videos.
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May 16 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   FIRE: Fire Starting Materials You Probably Have at Home
If you can't find matches or a fire starter, don't freak out. There're probably plenty of items around your house that you never realized could start a fire. Once you know what they are and how to use them, you're guaranteed a fire. Here's our list of items from around the house to get your fires started anytime.
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May 17 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   PERSONAL CARE: DIY and Survival Dental Care
Dental care is about far more than keeping those chompers looking good so you can feel confident and polite in society. Failing to keep teeth clean or not fixing any oral maladies can eventually lead to excruciating pain and turn life threatening far more quickly than one would think.
A toothbrush with toothpaste is always the best way to clean teeth. Baking Soda and Calcium Carbonate can be substituted for toothpaste. If a toothbrush is not available or in an emergency survival situation, clean teeth in other ways. A washcloth or towel can be used to remove the soft, sticky, bacteria-laden plaque that develops on the surface of the teeth. The end of a thin green twig from a non-poisonous tree or bush can be used. Chew it until it is soft and fibery and use this end as a brush to clean the teeth and gums. Even your finger will work if nothing else is available. Removing food from between teeth (flossing) will prevent decay and reduce bad breath.
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May 18 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   COMMUNICATIONS: Learn Silent and Secret Languages to Communicate Anywhere, Anytime
Every family or close-knit group of friends should have at least one way to convey information and messages to each other secretly, silently and, even, internationally. What are these languages? American Sign Language, Gregg Shorthand and International Morse Code. Making up your personal family language is even better.
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May 19 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   WATER: Boiling Water in a Leaf, Paper Cup or Plastic Bottle
Boiling is the safest and most effective primitive method of treating/purifying water. Viruses, Protozoa and most bacteria (but not all) are killed at the first bubble. It takes about three minutes of full boil to kill the remaining bacteria.
When a pot is not available, these containers can be used to boil water. This is possible because of conduction; the heat from the fire is conducted away from the container and into the water. Other parts of the container may get burned but the areas touching the water will not. The container must be filled with water to prevent burning. In the case of a leaf, choose one the is not poisonous and as large as possible. Fashion it into a cup shape to hold water. Use a wet vine or rope to hold its shape. Fill it with water and place it into the fire coals. To try this at home, use a large cabbage or lettuce leaf.
(Important note: Boiling water does NOT filter out any heavy metal or chemical contaminants.)
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May 20 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   DEFENSE: Be Forewarned: DIY Exterior Perimeter Alarm, High Security, Low-Tech
Bedding down at night in the woods, a survival situation or even home alone, can make the bravest person feel vulnerable and prevent a restful sleep. The first line of defense is being alerted, well in advance, of visitors. Setting up a perimeter alarm around "camp" is like having a watchful eye open while you rest. Having some fishing line, or other cordage, and glass bottles or cans will help build a basic alarm. String the cordage (fishing line) around the camp perimeter while tying a can or glass bottle every several feet. The line should be close to the ground so a walking person or critter will trip over it. Tying 2 or more cans/bottles together will clank together or adding a few small rocks in each can/bottle will rattle when the perimeter line is touched by a person or critter. Not only will you be warned but the intruder may be scared off as well. Visit the Related Link for details.
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May 21 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   TOOLS: Make a Cutting Tool (Ulu) from a Soup Can Lid
Every prepared person should have a knife or other cutting tool on their person at all times. If the knife is lost or destroyed, this tool can come in handy. Remove the can lid with a can opener or by smashing the can level with the can lid to remove the lid rim holding the lid in place or rub the can on a rock until the seal breaks. Fold 1/3 of the lid over to create a flat folded edge for holding the tool. Sharpen the exposed rounded edge on a stone. This tool can be used as-is or a handle can be added to the folded part for a better grip.
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May 22 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   TOOLS: Making Homemade [Survival] Cement
There are many uses for survival cement (a mixture of Clay Mud and Grass). If you are trying to survive in the wilderness or if a disaster destroys your home, it could be your saving grace. It can also be a useful skill and tool for projects around the home.
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May 23 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   DEFENSE: Using, and Defending Against, Drones
Drones can be useful for monitoring activity on your property but can also violate personal rights of privacy and peace. Shooting Down a Drone is not difficult. They are very fragile and nearly any projectile (slingshot/rock, bb/pellet gun, etc.) will take them out. An FAA license may be required to fly a drone.
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May 24 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   FINANCES: Killing Electrical Vampires
With inflated costs of everything, it's good to save where we can. Electrical Vampires are appliances and devices in the home/office that use massive amounts of electricity or suck 50 to 100 watts when they're not even being used. Turn off the lights and see what's glowing in the dark; they're, probably, your Electrical Vampires. Visit the Related Link to find and kill them.
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May 25 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   TOOLS: Make a Survival Whistle
Having a method to call for help is always helpful in an emergency. Yelling will soon wear out your voice and injure your throat. Carrying a small whistle is ideal but if a ready-made one is not available here are some ways to make one with what's around you like bamboo, rifle cartridge, soup can lid or an acorn.
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May 26 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   FIRE: Tips for Maintaining a Wood Burning Stove
Now is a great time to get the wood stove in shape for the next cold weather season. Proper maintenance is crucial to a top-performing, long lasting stove. Without it, the stove will not function as intended. A poorly functioning wood stove can lead to health risks, smoke damage or cause a fire.
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May 27 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   WATER: Household DIY Grey Water System on The Cheap
Water should never be wasted. A greywater system is used to take water that has already been used from places like laundry, shower and sink and divert it to use for another purpose like watering gardens or landscaping instead of flushing it down into the sewer or running it into a field. Using a Solar Still (distillation), greywater can be converted to drinking water. Here are some resources for installing and using a greywater system. Depending on where it is to be installed, a government permit may be required.
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May 28 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   PLANNING: Emergency Preparations on a Tight Budget
Supplies don't need to be expensive. Dollar Stores, Pawn Shops, Surplus Stores and Yard Sales are some local options. Search for free stuff web sites. If you're adventurous, take a Dumpster Diving excursion. Don't just get stuff because it's free unless you can barter (trade) it for stuff you actually need/want before, or during, a crisis when stores will run out of inventory and people will run out of their supplies. Store, organize and prioritize supplies in easy-to-move containers for quick access and relocation if evacuation is necessary. Electric and fuel may be unavailable for power tools; get hand tools for repairs. Brainstorm about ways to stretch dollars to get the most bang for the buck.
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May 29 Greater love has no man than this: that a man lay down his life for his friends.    [John 15:13]

   DEFENSE: Start or Join a Neighborhood Watch Group
Neighborhood Watch is an organized effort by concerned residents to look out for one others safety, and to help law enforcement officers protect people and their homes against criminals. If your neighborhood has not yet become a crime statistic, consider crime preventive measures by starting a Neighborhood Watch Program. At the very least, call the police any time something looks suspicious or out of place. If your neighborhood has already become a crime statistic, a Neighborhood Watch Program can tackle this problem. Ignoring the problem will not fix it.
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May 30 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   FOOD: Refrigeration During Long-Term Power Outages or Off Grid Living
During a long-term power outage or living off the grid, what methods can be used to preserve refrigerated foods? This has been one of my greatest challenges to leaving civilization so I have collected these ideas for contemplation. Take a look at some alternatives:
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May 31 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   PERSONAL CARE: Summer Heat - Staying Cool Without AC
My grandparents didn't have air conditioning and my parents didn't have it until I was 14. So, how did we stay cool during the Summer? Visit the Related Link for some basic things to consider when the temperatures and humidity increase to uncomfortable levels.
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June 1 And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord's people. Pray also for me, that whenever I speak, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should.    [Ephesians 6:18-20]

   POWER: Solar Powered Gadgets for Emergencies and to Save Electricity and Money
Solar power provides cleaner, more sustainable electricity, but few people can afford to mount solar panels on their houses, and few power providers have invested significantly in solar power generation. It's time to take solar power into your own hands. These devices won't let you take your house off the grid, but they will help during power outages and reduce your power bill and reliance on fossil fuels. When considering an electric or battery operated tool or appliance, research a solar alternative. You may be surprised what solar options are available to fit the need.
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June 2 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   PLANNING: Inventory and Organize Emergency Preps
It's frustrating when I can't find something I need to work on a project. When the SHTF, it's crucial to know where preps are and their condition and quantity. Here are some tips to help organize and, maybe, realize what you don't have that you really need.
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June 3 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   FOOD: Shelf Life of Foods May Not be Absolute
In normal times, it's difficult to argue taking the risk of making yourself sick if the upside will only amount to a couple of dollars saved. But, what about when times are not normal? Would you be so quick to toss out "expired" cans of green beans if calories were as scarce as water in a desert?
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June 4 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   TOOLS: Duct Tape - Keep this Ultimate Emergency Tool on Hand at All Times
Duct tape has become so popular because of its versatility. Ask anyone who is familiar with the polyethylene-coated, pressure-sensitive roll of adhesive about how they have used it and they will tell you about the many ways it has helped them. Have at least one roll handy wherever you go.
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June 5 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   DEFENSE: Ready-Up DIY Body Armor
The demand for bulletproof clothing and accessories is on the rise. From children's backpacks to executive suits, something's available for everyone in one form or another. But, in the unlikely event of civil unrest, having, or making, items to reduce bodily injury will be good to have readily available. Any injury, to any part of the body, has a negative impact on mobility and/or survival. When professional-grade bulletproof clothing and equipment aren't available, nearly every piece of sporting equipment, from hockey sticks and baseball bats to motorcycle and football helmets and pads can be repurposed for self-defense. A trip to the local sports (poor man's riot gear) store can prepare for the worst scenarios. Re-paint with black or earth-tone colors and be ready for the street or wilderness. Visit the Related Link for ideas on how to protect the body from head to toe with commercial or homemade items.
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June 6 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   TOOLS: DIY Tool/Knife Handles
If the handle breaks on a knife, weapon or hand tool, don't "buy" a new one. Make it yourself with paracord/rope wrap, duct tape, corn cob, a section of a tree branch, using animal bone or melting HDPE (high-density polyethylene) plastic in a metal container then molding it to the desired size and shape. HDPE plastic is identified by a "2" (resin identification code) inside the recycle symbol. The fumes from other melted plastics are noxious and can cause illness.
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June 7 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   DEFENSE: Guide for Best Practices for Mail Screening and Handling Processes
This might seem to be a strange thing to consider in a home defense plan, but this is one of the easiest ways to inflict injury without the perp actually 'being there'. Knowing the signs of a suspicious letter or package could save a life.
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June 8 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   TOOLS: DIY Wilderness Glue for Sticky Situations
A combination of Pine Sap and [black] Powdered Charcoal (1 part charcoal powder with 3 parts pine sap) creates a very strong natural epoxy. Slowly melt the pine sap (prevent burning), let it simmer for 5-6 minutes to evaporate the turpentine so it doesn't catch on fire, stir in the charcoal powder and apply the epoxy mixture, with a stick, to the project to harden. The unused sap/charcoal mixture can be gathered on the end of a stick (like a popsicle for easy transport) and re-heated and reused indefinitely.
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June 9 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   FIRE: Make a Simple Portable Log Holder for Cutting Small Firewood
Cutting Small Fire Logs can be challenging and dangerous (especially when using a chainsaw). Keeping the log secure, and not moving around, can be done with a Log Cutting Holder. There are many commercial versions but P4T is all about self-reliance and DIY so this A-shaped one fits the bill.
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June 10 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   FOOD: Gathering Ants and Their Eggs (Larvae) for Survival Food
Ants and their eggs are tasty and nutritious. And, with the help of a plastic tarp, they can be easily collected. Fold over the edges of the tarp (photo). Then find an ant hill, dig it up, and dump all of the contents (ants and dirt) onto the center of the tarp. The ants will scramble to save the eggs — and carry all of the eggs into the "safety" of the folds around the tarp. After they are done scrambling, unfold the tarp and gather up the eggs and eat them and the ants.
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June 11 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   WATER: DIY Wilderness Canteen
When SHTF, or if life just throws you a curveball and you find yourself in a survival situation without being prepared (should never be the case but...), one of the first things on the survival to-do list is to find water. Once a water source is located, though, there are two important factors to consider. First, making sure it's clean/drinkable/safe/purified. Second, a method to transport it. A water container should be transportable and able to heat/cook over a fire. Consider tree bark, bamboo, Animal Parts (skin, bladder, intestines, stomach - clean and boil for 2 hours), Coconut shells, Sea shells, Turtle shells, Large, live, non-poisonous leaves, Trash bottles, cans and bags, etc. Visit the Related Link for suggestions.
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June 12 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   MEDICAL: DIY Customized Bandages
Bandages are a luxury in a survival scenario. Make the best possible use of them when necessary. Cut a center slice through each of the adhesive strips long-ways, from the ends up to the bandage portion to make them more flexible for stubborn body parts like fingers, elbows and knees. Cut the bandage area narrower to use as a Butterfly bandage in place of sutures for laceration wounds.
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June 13 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   TOOLS: Re-Purposing Plastic Bottles for Home and Survival
Garbage is abundant everywhere you look and a large percentage of that garbage consists of plastic bottles.  This may be sad for our environment, but there are many ways to repurpose them instead of trashing them.
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June 14 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   NAVIGATION: Use a Clock/Watch as a Compass
The watch/clock method for navigation is useful for finding the cardinal directions of: north, south, east and west. While not being 100 percent accurate, it is handy for crude navigation when a compass is not available and can head you in the correct general direction in camping, bushcraft, backpacking and survival situations. It is also useful in combination with other natural navigation methods. Visit the Related Link for details.
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June 15 O death, where then your victory? Where then your sting? For sin - the sting that causes death - will all be gone; and the law, which reveals our sins, will no longer be our judge. How we thank God for all of this! It is He who makes us victorious through Jesus Christ our Lord!    [1 Corinthians 15:55-57]

   Raise Livestock for Food and Other Resources:
Nature's farming system creates a diverse, stable community of plants and animals that efficiently captures the sun's energy, cycles nutrients and conserves water. Across the planet, she has created climax ecosystems that are exquisitely suited to the climate and soils of the location where they are found. Every niche is filled; every resource is used and recycled over and over again.

Hopefully, as part of your self-reliance efforts, you have built an abundant garden of vegetables and fruits. Now, like mother nature, round out your personal ecosystem by raising some kind of livestock that suits your environment. They can serve as producers of food, clothing, security and companionship.
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June 16 So, my dear brothers, since future victory is sure, be strong and steady, always abounding in the Lord's work, for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever wasted as it would be if there were no resurrection.    [1 Corinthians 15:58]

   SKILL: DIY Lock Picking & Key Duplication With Common Items
Lock picking can be tricky even when you have all the right tools and expertise. Here are several approaches which use unique tools to crack locks.
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June 17 The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for His name's sake.

Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.

You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever.    [Psalm 23:1-6]

   TOOLS: Acquire a Sillcock Key for Access to Urban Building Water Supplies
A Sillcock Key is used for water valves, without a spigot handle, on the exterior of buildings. Widely used by plumbers, contractors, and engineers, it's a simple device used to open tamper-resistant (handles removed to prevent theft and vandalism) sillcocks and hose bibs. You'll find these outdoor water faucets on almost every residential, commercial, and industrial building. Also known as hose bibs, spigots, and valves, sillcocks are external water supplies that you can attach a hose to or use to access water outside. Even if the power is off, there will still be water in the pipes. For any self-respecting prepper, that means a vital step towards survival. The absence of a [spigot] handle means you need a key to operate the valve. Not all sillcocks are the same so, even the most basic sillcock key generally has four different attachments, each of which is a slightly different size or shape. Although not specifically designed for survival situations, a sillcock key is a handy item to have in your bug-out bag.
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June 18 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   FOOD: How to Make Moonshine and Other Home Brews
Step-by-step process documented from video on 2 ways to make moonshine; by still or pressure cooker.
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June 19 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   WATER: Life Straw Portable Water Filter
Life Straw is a portable water filter that removes 99.9% waterborne bacteria in a easy-to-carry container that is about 12" long and about 1.5" in diameter. Like the name implies, it is used like a straw to suck water from its source through the device and into the mouth. Every backpack should include one.
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June 20 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   DEFENSE: Learn How to Defeat Facial Recognition Cameras/Software
Everywhere you walk you’re subjected to an array of CCTV (Closed-circuit Television) cameras. When you’re in the convenience store, the shopping mall, in a restaurant…all of these cameras are continually capturing your photographs. No big deal, right? I mean, you're a twitter and tweet social butterfly with e-mails, texts, and Facebook posts . . . what could be the harm in that?

Our Anonymity is a Thing of the Past. Why? Because, not only does government and "big tech" want to control the population, they want a complete audio and video surveillance of every person to know where they are going and what they are doing. The Related Link provides suggestions on how to defeat surveillance.
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June 21 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   TOOLS: Learn how to Use Manual and Electric/Battery Hand Tools
Half the fun of embarking on a DIY project or maintaining your home is choosing the best tools for the job. As the years go by and your projects get more ambitious, you'll likely accumulate hundreds of tools. But these are the essential tools you can't live without, and will turn to time and again for general upkeep, repair jobs, DIY projects and specialized jobs.
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June 22 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   PLANNING: What NOT to do in a SHTF Situation
Understanding what NOT to do in an emergency is as important and helpful as planning and knowing what to do. More often than not our instincts will make us do things that are counterproductive to our survival like don't panic or get depressed, don't obsess over sensationalized newscasts, don't go to stores, banks or gas stations, don't share info about your preps and more counterproductive actions listed on the Related Link.
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June 23 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   FOOD: Extract Salt, From Water, Plants or Blood, for Survival Use
Salt (Sodium) has many uses, not the least of these is curing and preserving meat/food. When you can't buy it, extract your own from seawater, some plants and vegetables and even animal blood. Visit the Related Link for useful extraction methods.
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June 24 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   COMMUNICATIONS: Make Ink From Plants
Many types of plant material can be made into ink. For this project, smash about 1/2 cup of pokeberries (poisonous) in a cooking container. Add just enough water to cover the smashed pokeberries. Slowly bring to a boil then remove from the heat. Add 1 teaspoon of salt and 1 teaspoon of vinegar (if available). Simmer for 15 minutes. Stir to mix well while simmering. Filter the liquid into a storage container that can be sealed. Use a large feather as a pen for writing. Use the Related Link to research other options.
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June 25 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   SUPPLIES: Looting vs Scavenging
The whole idea behind being prepared is to have what you need, when you need it. In an ideal situation, regardless of disaster you would have all the food, water, and supplies to endure until such time order was restored, if such a time is ever going to come. There are any number of "what if" scenarios that could play out, preventing access to emergency supplies. Regardless of how it happens, you could suddenly find yourself standing in front of a wreck of a building. Once upon a time, it was a convenience store. Near as you can tell, it isn't occupied by anyone. Odds are pretty good you could find at least a few canned goods, possibly a bottle or two of water. What do you do? Your imagination should be a guide to help determine what is "trash" and what is "treasure" and your heart should guide you to determine looting from scavenging.
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June 26 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   PERSONAL CARE: Make Soap From Plants
Many plants have natural saponins; steroids that occur naturally and dissolve in water and create a stable lather. Often, it's just a matter of breaking off a piece of the plant (often in the roots) or berries and rubbing between the hands to make the lather. Make sure NOT to introduce the soap into open water sources such as lakes and streams. Saponins are poisonous to fish and other marine life. Also, do not eat these plants as some are poisonous if taken internally. Visit the Related Link for plants to consider and additional information.
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June 27 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   FOOD: Make [Natural] Granulated Sugars from Honey, Fruits and Tree Saps
Honey is the only natural sweetener not made from plants. Many fruits, trees and plants contain natural sugar. Sugars from flowers and plants are mostly gathered by bees to make honey. Removing the moisture (by cooking or dehydration) from the sap/juice, then crushing the dry residue, produces granulated sugar to use for sweetening. Visit the Related Link for details.
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June 28 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   SHELTER: Using Rock Caves for Shelter
Stone Caves can be great ready-made shelters when they are safe. Inspect before use. Check for existing critter inhabitants or signs of frequent visitors such as animal feces, hair/fur, bones, tracks and smells of urine. Keep in mind that, during hot weather, snakes seek cool shelter and they eat bats, and other rodents, which may inhabit the cave. Look for signs of water leaks or wetness. High dampness or moisture content makes it miserable to sleep, leaves you cold most of the time, promotes bacteria and mold growth and weakens stone integrity. Use a good light source to check for loose overhead rocks on the ceilings and walls and fissures or cracks in the stone that can be made worse by heat when building a fire. The lower the ceiling, the more the cave's structural integrity, and your safety, will be at risk; the higher the ceiling, the better as well as better ventilation. Caves can contain Carbon Dioxide (CO2), especially in volcanic regions, and suffocate humans and animals in minutes. A lighted match or candle will not stay lit when CO2 is present.
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June 29 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   SKILLS: Learn Blacksmithing
In the old days, the blacksmith was like our "engineer" of his time. He needed to make precise tools for his community from the farmer to the hunter and trapper to the doctor and others. Some of the basic tools of the trade are: Forge, Coal, Anvil, several kinds/sizes of Tongs, several kinds/sizes of Hammers and Protective Clothing. The ability to manipulate metals has always been the mainstay to survivability. Learning this skill will help yourself to make tools you need as well as becoming a bartering skill for off-grid trading.
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June 30 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   FOOD: Cook Food on a Shovel
Most backpackers and bug-out-bags will carry a small, foldable shovel to dig a latrine, fire pit or cover fire coals to put out a fire. A Not-So-Primitive cooking method is using a shovel as a skillet when no pots, pans or griddle are available. The metal shovel is excellent for cooking meats, veggies and breads. The [usual] long handle, makes it convenient to maneuver the food in and around the fire for different temperatures. Other kinds of makeshift cooking tools can make cooking a bit more convenient and safer in the wild.
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July 1 At that time (Revelation 19:6-16) the kingdom of heaven will be like ten virgins who took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom. [2] Five of them were foolish and five were wise. [3] The foolish ones took their lamps but did not take any oil with them. [4] The wise ones, however, took oil in jars along with their lamps. [5] The bridegroom was a long time in coming, and they all became drowsy and fell asleep.
[6] At midnight the cry rang out: "Here's the bridegroom! Come out to meet him!"
[7] Then all the virgins woke up and trimmed their lamps. [8] The foolish ones said to the wise, "Give us some of your oil; our lamps are going out."
[9] "No," they replied, "there may not be enough for both us and you. Instead, go to those who sell oil and buy some for yourselves."
[10] But while they were on their way to buy the oil, the bridegroom arrived. The virgins who were ready went in with him to the wedding banquet. And the door was shut.
[11] Later the others also came. "Lord, Lord," they said, "open the door for us!"
[12] But he replied, "Truly I tell you, I don't know you."
[13] Therefore [always] keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour.    [Matthew 25]

   PLANNING: Pray for the Best and Prepare for the Worst. Prepare4Tomorrow because we'll never know when "the day before" is the day before.
Keep Your Lamp and Oil Ready. Prepare!
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July 2 If your heart is broken, you'll find God right there; if you're kicked in the gut, He'll help you catch your breath.    [Psalm 34:18]

   MEDICAL: DIY Eye Black
Preventing snow blindness or eye burn is crucial for outside activities. Bare cheeks reflect the sun into the eyes. When commercial eye black product is not available, reduce sun glare in the eyes by crushing charcoal to powder and mixing with some kind of wax or petroleum-based product. Smear the greasy black "paint" on the cheek bone just beneath the eyes. If no wax or petroleum-based product is available, mix the charcoal with a small amount of water to make a paste or use dark-colored mud, both of which may require frequent re-application when it dries and falls off. Can also be used for face camo.
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July 3 Trust in the Lord God always, for in the Lord Jehovah is your everlasting strength. He humbles the proud and brings the haughty city to the dust; its walls come crashing down. He presents it to the poor and needy for their use. But for good men the path is not uphill and rough! God does not give them a rough and treacherous path, but smooths the road before them.    [Isaiah 26:4-7]

   FIRE: Candles From Wilderness Materials
From a wilderness practicality perspective, we can see it is a great skill to learn to make wilderness candles from plant oils and waxes, animal fat/tallow, pine tree resin, tree oils and honeycomb. Visit the Related Link for details.
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July 4 For you were called to freedom, brothers and sisters; only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for self-indulgence, but through love, become slaves to one another. For the whole law is summed up in a single commandment, "You shall love your neighbor as yourself."    [Galatians 5:13-14]

   FOOD: Wilderness Beverages
In a survival situation, "the best part of waking up" may not be coffee in your cup. Even a warm/hot cup of plain-ol-water can boost morale in a stressful situation. But it's not always necessary to do without the luxury of a warm beverage when things are a bit upside down. Steeping Pine needles, Sassafras, Dandelion or other edible plants in boiling water can add some pleasant and unique flavoring to your hot cup of plain-ol-water. So, when you're in the middle of a survival situation, look around you; there may just be something growing nearby that will make the day a bit brighter.
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July 5 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? As it is written: "For your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered." No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.    [Romans 8:35-37]

   TOOLS: DIY BackPack
Regardless of what you have to carry, most times, strapping it to your back, or over the shoulder or around your waist will be easier than holding it in your hands. In a survival situation, your hands should be free to hack through brush, move branches, hold a compass or carry a walking stick, to name just a few. If, for whatever reason, you find yourself without a useful pack, learn how to make your own. You can lash a frame together with rope and fill the frame with some kind of bag or tarp, or just tie a bag shut and sling it over your shoulder or tie it around your waist or make a pack or pouch from scratch with the materials on hand, like tree bark, animal skin, vines, clothing, whatever. Visit the Related Link for some ideas to let your brain ponder:
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July 6 Everything good comes from God. Every perfect gift is from Him. These good gifts come down from the Father who made all the lights in the sky. But God never changes like the shadows from those lights. He is always the same.    [James 1:17]

   FOOD: Make, and Practice with, Small Primitive Hunting Tools
Wilderness-Improvised tools like a Throwing Stick or [David] Slingshot are very formidable in skillful hands. Lots of practice is recommended before actually needing them. They are quick to ready for use and easy to transport in backpack or pants belt. A Throwing Stick needs less accuracy because of its large surface area as it rotates and flies toward the target; even marginal throws may bring down a rabbit, squirrel or bird on branch or ground. An Atlatl or modified Arrow-Slingshot can bring down larger game.
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July 7 The steps of good men are directed by the Lord. He delights in each step they take.    [Psalm 37:23]

   SKILLS: Personal Benefits of Volunteering
One of the best ways to help people, learn something new, improve upon what you already know or empower goodness and freedom in this world is to volunteer. Working on a farm to learn crop growing or raising animals for food, getting involved in politics to affect change, working at a charity organization to help the less fortunate or to just get out of life's routine and meet new people in a purposeful setting may be a few examples. It can, sometimes, be viewed as an entirely selfless act, with the assumption that you are sacrificing your time and resources to help others without any benefit to yourself. But most volunteers have experienced that they receive more than they give. Before volunteering, it's important to ask yourself what you would like to learn or accomplish from the experience then inquire if the opportunity aligns with any of those expectations. Sharing your life with another part of your community may just change your life, and theirs, for the better.
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July 8 Take your stand, but stand still, and watch the Lord's salvation on your behalf, . . . ! Never fear and never be discouraged. . . the Lord is with you.    [2 Chronicles 20:17]

   DEFENSE: Know Your Neighborhood . . . the Lay of the Land
Whether for a short time or a lifetime, one of the most important things to do in your place of current residence is to take a walk through, and around, the community and become familiar with houses, neighbors, streets and their names, escape routes, security shelters, cover and pinch points, fire hydrants and swimming pools (for water sources), locations of emergency shelters, neighbors with items or services to barter with, areas where "undesireables" gather and anything else you can gather from your walk. If you are a permanent resident, make this walk a regular event to start building relationships with residents throughout the community; not just next door or across the street, and especially with those who live at community entrance roads; they are "the gatekeepers". Understand that people come and go (willingly or not) so try to keep up with those changes. Some of these people may become close enough to start a Community Watch group or, eventually, add to your survival companionships. Doing these things could help your community be your first line of defense in an emergency situation.
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July 9 I can do anything I want to if Christ has not said no, but some of these things aren't good for me. Even if I am allowed to do them, I'll refuse to if I think they might get such a grip on me that I can't easily stop when I want to.    [1 Corinthians 6:12]

   HEALTH: Enduring Pain Without Medicine
What if all of your favorite coping mechanisms (ways of getting through sucky circumstances) were GONE? Nature has some helpful ways to cope with and eliminate pain without the side effects of man-made drugs.
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July 10 Behold, God is my helper; The Lord is the sustainer of my soul.    [Psalm 54:4]

   FINANCES: What is Cryptocurrency and How Does it Work?
Cryptocurrency has made its mark in a "cashless society". It's a form of digital money that is designed to be secure and, in many cases, anonymous. With the value of the U.S. dollar dropping, consider researching, and investing in, Cryptocurrency to diversify your financial portfolio. Visit the Related Link for more information and videos.
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July 11 But Jesus called them together and said, "You know that the rulers in this world lord it over their people, and officials flaunt their authority over those under them. But among you it will be different. Whoever wants to be a leader among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first among you must become your slave."    [Matthew 20:25-27]

   WATER: Find Water by Dowsing (Water Witching)
Formerly considered as some kind of witchcraft, dowsing is a type of pseudoscientific divination employed in attempts to locate ground water, buried metals or ores, gemstones, oil, gravesites, malign 'earth vibrations' and many other objects and materials without the use of a scientific apparatus. It is also known as divining (especially in reference to interpretation of results), doodlebugging (particularly in the United States, in searching for petroleum) or (when searching for water) water finding, water witching (in the United States) or water dowsing. Using a "special" tree branch, or 2 metal rods, held in the hands, water is detected when the branch bends or the rods cross. Visit the Related Link for more information.
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July 12 Commit everything you do to the Lord. Trust Him, and He will help you. He will make your innocence radiate like the dawn, and the justice of your cause will shine like the noonday sun.    [Psalm 37:5-6]

   TRANSPORTATION: DIY Survival Watercraft
Lost in the wilderness, near bodies of water, stumbling upon a canoe, rowboat or kayak, along the shore, might not be too farfetched. But, when that kind of find doesn't present itself, and getting back to civilization is best done by water, making a survival watercraft may be the best option. Visit the Related Link for options.
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July 13 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   TOOLS: Water Safety Floatation Pants and Shirt
If in deep water without a floatation device, your pants or shirt can be inflated by your breath to create a make-shift temporary floatation device. Visit the Related Link for instructions.
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July 14 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   SHELTER: Living in Your Car
Whether by choice or necessity, living in a car (other than an RV) will be even more challenging than living in an RV; space and basic amenities being the main factors. First on the list of preparations is to prepare it for an Emergency as any good prepper would do. Then consider things like, efficient use of available space, locations to park/rest, camping/cooking/sleeping setup/equipment, personal care products and staying clean, seasonal clothing, food and drink, privacy from prying eyes, communications (cell phone, WiFi/hotspot), staying warm and keeping cool. Visit the Related Link for details.
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July 15 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   FAMILY: Home & Online Schooling - A Better Way to Educate Our Children
Do the school teachers of your children have the same family values and beliefs as you? Are students being educated or indoctrinated. When sending our children to a public, government-controlled school is against our beliefs or not feasible, homeschooling (or selective online private schooling) is a great alternative. You can do a much better job than public school teachers with a classroom full of students. As long as you can read, and regardless of your level of education, just do what teachers do – buy books with a year's curriculum (program), and do what it says. On-line schooling can free-up parents for employment while the child is taught by educators the parents choose. Provide your child with an education you can control and avoid any potential indoctrination agendas. When the opportunity arises, take advantage of online or homeschooling. There are lots of helpful resources and support groups. You can do it!
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July 16 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   TOOLS: DIY Woodworking Clamps and Vise
When you don't have a commercial vise or clamps to hold a project in place while you work on it or need to glue it, build your own Rope Vise or Viking Clamp or improvise using other household items like a tire jack, caulk gun, bungie cord, ratchet strap or mouse trap.
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July 17 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   SKILLS: Bartering (Have --> Want)
Bartering was an economic system that was created without the use of money and modern technology. Utilizing the process the right way will ensure a profit. It is extremely important to realize the value of maintaining a personal barter store. In an economic collapse, where money will be nearly worthless, a number of non-monetary goods will be more valuable than a fistful of dollars. Having something of value to others can get stuff that is of value to you. Things you can trade, to get what you want, will be invaluable. Others will trade what you need for items you don't consider useful (booze, cigarettes, etc.). Visit the Related Link to review some useful tricks of the trade.
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July 18 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   POWER: Produce Electricity From Earth's Most Powerful Fluid - Water
. . . one thing we can always count on is gravity. And one special type of electric generation uses the power of gravity to harness electricity from moving water: Hydroelectric power. Learn how to apply this power source for personal use.
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July 19 If My people, who are called by My name, will humble themselves and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.    [2 Chronicles 7:14]

   SKILLS: Aquatic Survival
When thinking survival, building fires, shelters and hiking miles of wilderness may come to mind. But these aquatic survival skills are important for the other 70% of the planet's surface in order to survive places like rivers, oceans, and other larger bodies of water. Learn to swim and survive in water.
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July 20 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   POWER: Coping With Fuel Shortages (or high prices)
Often, there is actually no shortage of fuel, only the means by which suppliers (and/or government) control its distribution. Nevertheless, we are affected by their greed, control, manipulation and lack of forethought. Carpool, work @ home, combine trips to the store & appointments, use fuel-efficient vehicles, improve driving habits, keep vehicles in good repair, shop for best fuel prices, buy online (home deliver), share shopping with friends/neighbors and consider other things, listed on the Related Link, to cope with their games and deficiencies.
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July 21 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   TOOLS: Survival Uses for PVC Pipe
Not only is PVC pipe a valuable and incredibly versatile survival tool, but it's also super affordable. It can be found in different hardware and home improvement stores and even junkyards all across the nation. You may get it from a friend or neighbor; it's so common that they likely won't have an issue selling/bartering it to you, or letting you have it for free. If this stuff isn't in your bug out bag yet, you're going to want to throw some in once you've read this list at the Related Link which also contains a video describing available components, cutting and gluing (if necessary).
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July 22 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   PLANNING: Emergency Planning for Our Pets
In an emergency, our pets will be even more dependent on us for their safety and well-being. Because our pets are part of our family, including them in our Emergency Plans will help ensure the survival of our entire family. Things like a Pet Emergency and First Aid Kit (even one they can wear), evacuation drills, collar ID, "Pet Rescue" Stickers, animal shelter/sitter plans, food, water, meds and other considerations, listed on the Related Link, will help our pets be prepared for, survive, and recover from, a disaster.
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July 23 Joseph was thirty years old when he entered the service of Pharaoh king of Egypt. And Joseph went out from Pharaoh’s presence and traveled throughout Egypt. During the seven years of abundance the land produced plentifully. Joseph collected all the food produced in those seven years of abundance in Egypt and stored it in the cities. In each city he put the food grown in the fields surrounding it. Joseph stored up huge quantities of grain, like the sand of the sea; it was so much that he stopped keeping records because it was beyond measure. The seven years of abundance in Egypt came to an end, and the seven years of famine began, just as Joseph had said. There was famine in all the other lands, but in the whole land of Egypt there was food. When all Egypt began to feel the famine, the people cried to Pharaoh for food. Then Pharaoh told all the Egyptians, "Go to Joseph and do what he tells you." When the famine had spread over the whole country, Joseph opened all the storehouses and sold grain to the Egyptians, for the famine was severe throughout Egypt. And all the world came to Egypt to buy grain from Joseph, because the famine was severe everywhere.    [Genesis 41:46-57]

   PLANNING: High Value Items to Stockpile, for Personal Use and Bartering, Before an Emergency
When life takes a dump on the lives of the unprepared, be THE prepared. Visit the Related Link for lists of things to stockpile such as ammo, booze, cigarettes, cleaning and persoanl care items and more.
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July 24 Be still in the presence of the Lord, and wait patiently for Him to act. Don't worry about evil people who prosper or fret about their wicked schemes.    [Psalm 37:7]

   NAVIGATION: Survival Trail Marking
No matter what form trail markings take, their ultimate goal is to communicate where a hiker is currently, and where they need to go next. In a survival situation, marking trees is essential to communicating direction of travel to rescuers and help the hiker stay on course. Basic markings are one (| = Away from Camp) or two (|| = Back to Camp) verticle lines. These lines appear on opposite sides of a tree, cut into the bark with a knife or hatchet. If you've built a campsite, look for two verticle lines to find your way back to camp. If you are blazing a way out, seeing two lines means you're going in circles. Other methods of marking can be used (charcoal, ribbon, chalk, rocks, logs) to prevent tree damage but make sure they are visibly obvious, aren't easily destroyed and can be clearly visible from the last marker.
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July 25 So the Lord must wait for you to come to Him so He can show you His love and compassion. For the Lord is a faithful God. Blessed are those who wait for His help.    [Isaiah 30:18]

   DEFENSE: Kidnapping - How to Reduce Being a Target and Respond if it Happens
The methods behind kidnapping are as varied as their motivations. While kidnapping, especially for ransom, can be a crime of opportunity, foreigners are often targeted due to their high-profile appearance, vulnerability, and assumed wealth. Situational Awareness, keeping a low profile and not travelling alone are necessary to reduce the chances of becoming a victim but knowing how to survive is also important if the unthinkable happens. Visit the Related Link for details.
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July 26 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   HEALTH & FINANCE: Smoking & Vaping - Health and Wealth Up In Smoke
Included in the topics of emergency preparation and survival, two aspects of their success are personal health and managing finances. If we aren't healthy enough to survive, why bother preparing and when we should be conserving our resources (including finances) and reducing our debt/spending to prepare, why waste money on things that produce no tangible benefits? And, of course, how will our family members be affected? If you are a smoker, how often have you thought of quitting? Maybe it's time to think about it again, with sincerity.
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July 27 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   FOOD: Protecting Camp Food From Wildlife
When at home, we take the availability of food for granted. Restocking an empty pantry can be achieved by a trip to the grocery store or ordering online. The story is much different when you are in the great outdoors. Opportunistic wildlife abounds and will find their way to your food stash. Unless you are an expert in foraging for wild edible plants with an abundance where you're camping, chances are that you brought food with you; food that wildlife will want to partake. Generally, hang food from a tree branch 12 feet up from the ground, 5 feet down from the supporting tree branch and 5 feet from the tree trunk. Visit the Related Link for details and other suggestions to protect your camping food from wildlife.
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July 28 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   TOOLS: Bra Mask
If a fire breaks out and air gets smoky, cover your face with a bra cup to keep harmful particles from entering your lungs. Most cups are sized perfectly to cover the nose and mouth, and you can tie the bra straps around your head for hands-free use. Once your DIY mask is in place, quickly move to safety.
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July 29 The eyes of the Lord search the whole earth in order to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to Him.    [2 Chronicles 16:9]

   WATER: Making Distilled Water
Distillation creates the purest form of water. It involves boiling water and collecting only the vapor that condenses [back into water]. The condensed vapor will not include salt or most other impurities. To make distilled water, fill a pot halfway with water.  Tie a cup to the handle on the pot's lid so that the cup will hang right-side-up when the pot lid is flipped upside-down in a funnel shape. Make sure the cup is not dangling into the water in the pot. Boil the water for 20 minutes. The water that drips from the lid into the cup is distilled. Contaminants will stay behind in the pot.
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July 30 God took us out of a life of darkness. He has put us in the holy nation of His much-loved Son. We have been bought by His blood and made free. Our sins are forgiven through Him.    [Colossians 1:13-14]

   FOOD: Make Homemade Vinegar
Anything that will ferment (turns to alcohol) will, eventually, turn to vinegar. Make a punch from anything containing sugar (berries, apples, grapes, etc.). Let it ferment, then leave it in the open air for a few weeks and it will turn to vinegar.
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July 31 The Lord is good to those who trust in Him, to the one that seeks Him.    [Lamentations 3:25]

   CLOTHING: Making Dye for Clothing
Many fruits and plants produce natural dyes. For examples, raspberry will make red, goldenrod will make deep brown, pokeberries (poisonous) make purple and bloodroot makes orange to reddish. Dyes made from berries can be soaked in a hot fixative (to make the color permanent) of salt water while most plants will require vinegar as a fixative. Learn how to make your own natural fabric dyes.
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August 1 And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise them up. If they have sinned, they will be forgiven. Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective. Elijah was a human being, even as we are. He prayed earnestly that it would not rain, and it did not rain on the land for three and a half years. Again he prayed, and the heavens gave rain, and the earth produced its crops.    [James 5:15-18]

   MEDICAL: Grow Medicinal Herbs Indoors
Growing medicinal herbs (like Basil, Rosemary, Mint, Parsley, Oregano, Thyme, Sage and others) indoors can spice up meals and could save a trip to the doctor for minor illnesses like rashes or coughs. Wouldn’t it be great to have these herbs at your fingertips when you need them or in case of medicine shortages?
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August 2 You can never please God without faith, without depending on Him. Anyone who wants to come to God must believe that there is a God and that He rewards those who sincerely look for Him.    [Hebrews 11:6]

   SKILLS: Think Critically - Avoid Being a Member of The Tin Foil Hat Club
Thinking critically is an important skill. It is not thinking negatively but the ability to reason and being an active learner rather than a passive recipient of information. Critical thinking is the ability to think clearly and rationally, understanding the logical connection between ideas. Critical thinkers rigorously question ideas and assumptions rather than accepting them at face value. They will always seek to determine whether the ideas, arguments and findings represent the entire picture and are open to finding that they do not. Critical thinkers will identify, analyse and solve problems systematically rather than by intuition or instinct. Those who passively accept everything they see or hear are missing the concept of propaganda; a tool used by business and media to sell and coerce. Critical Thinkers are able to assess the information provided to them and distinguish the difference between facts and manipulations. Survival depends on determining truth from fiction. So, when you hear or read your next bit of information, Think about it Critically.
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August 3 So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.    [1 Corinthians 10:31]

   SKILLS: Learn Military Time
While most Americans may not need to learn military time, it's actually quite useful and very easy to learn. Unless you work in an international industry, such as a global airline, most Americans never fully grasp military time. Military time is based on a 24-hour clock, which is why the numbers on the clock go from 00 to 23. Most people, however, use the 12-hour clock, which is why the numbers do not go past 12, and the "a.m." and "p.m." must be used. Basically put, once the hour hand passes 12:59 PM, the military clock starts; 1:00 PM becomes 1300 (thirteen hundred [hours]), 3:45 PM becomes 1545 (fifteen 45 [hours]) and so on. Visit the Related Link for more details.
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August 4 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.    [Romans 8:28]

   POWER: Keeping a Rarely Used Battery Charged
Batteries in sport utility vehicles (like ATVs or dirtbikes) and power generators can die simply because they aren't being used frequently. Connect a Battery Tender/Maintainer, also called a Trickle Charger, which keeps the battery charged when not in use. Leaving a regular battery charger connected all of the time will ruin the battery by overcharging. The difference between a battery charger and a battery tender is that the charger will keep applying current to the battery all the time while the battery tender applies a very small current and is designed to shut itself on and off depending on battery voltage. Instead of using a battery tender to keep from losing battery power, disconnect the negative battery terminal, to avoid discharge of batteries that will not be used longer than 3 weeks.
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August 5 You younger men, follow the leadership of those who are older. And all of you serve each other with humble spirits, for God gives special blessings to those who are humble, but sets Himself against those who are proud. If you will humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, in His good time He will lift you up. Let him have all your worries and cares, for he is always thinking about you and watching everything that concerns you.    [1 Peter 5:5-7]

   FOOD: Safely Foraging for Mushrooms
If you are interested in getting into mushroom foraging, but are (justifiably) afraid of poisoning yourself, this article is worth reading. Survival food or gourmet treats, it contains lots of advice to help people get started with foraging. Once you start, you are likely to be hooked!
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August 6 Dear friends, if our hearts do not condemn us, we have confidence before God and receive from Him anything we ask, because we keep his commands and do what pleases Him.    [1 John 3:21-22]

   PLANNING: Backup Your Backups
Never should it be assumed that things will always be as they are. Jobs are lost, vehicles break down, electric goes out, weather can stop us from getting to the store, a lost nut holding a chainsaw together (yeah, it happens). It's the prudent thing to do to think of what I need to live and implement/purchase methods that will back that up and then come up with a 3rd [or 4th or 5th] backup option. And, if an electric vehicle is being considered, buy a hybrid for a gas backup. As a Prepper, I not only prepare for emergencies from external sources but also for when my own preps fail or are depleted. Redundancy is one of the high marks of being a prepared person.
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August 7 Trust in the Lord with all your heart. Never rely on what you think you know. Remember the Lord in everything you do, and He will show you the right way.    [Proverbs 3:5-6]

   TOOLS: Primitive Needle and Thread
When clothing needs to be made or is torn or a serious open wound injury happens, both should be repaired (sewn or sutured [not recommended]) to prevent further damage. If a basic sewing kit is not available, alternatives may need to be made or acquired such as thorny and fibrous plants, bone, sinew and other options found in the wild and identified at the Related Link.
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August 8 It is better to trust in the Lord than to put confidence in man. It is better to trust in the Lord than to put confidence in princes.    [Psalm 118:8-9]

   MEDICAL: Household Products That Can Double for First Aid Use
Having a first-aid kit in the home is a smart way to stay healthy and safe in times of emergency. However, these kits are often old, missing items or lost altogether. You might wonder what you can use if this kit isn't available. Luckily, there are basic items around the house (like milk, oatmeal, diapers, pepper, salt, honey and more) that make a difference. Visit the Related Link to take a different look at these simple household items because they can save a life down the road. Turn your everyday items into life saving tools.
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August 9 Then He said to them, "Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions."    [Luke 12:15]

   FIRE: Learn the Proper Use of Ferro, Flint and Magnesium to Start a Fire
Ferrocerium (Ferro) is a synthetic pyrophoric alloy that produces hot sparks that can reach temperatures of 3,000 °C when rapidly oxidized by the process of striking the rod, thereby fragmenting it and exposing those fragments to the oxygen in the air which causes the sparks. When scraped with a metal "striker", a Flint and Ferro create sparks and can start fires when the sparks enter a tinder pile. It requires some practice to produce a spark but, once learned, they are reliable fire starters in nearly any weather condition. Magnesium is a volatile metal that ignites quickly with any spark and burns very hot (2200 °C, 4000 °F) to catch nearly anything on fire. In and of itself, it cannot burn without an ignitor (flint or ferro). Visit the Related Link for their proper use.
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August 10 God's way is perfect. The Lord's promise always proves to be true. He protects those who trust in Him. There is no God except the Lord. There is no Rock except our God.    [2 Samuel 22:31-32]

   WATER: Collecting Water Using a Solar Still
A Solar Still collects condensated water from, in most cases, ground moisture. This technique will work just about anywhere, provided that there is enough sunlight to assist the process.
Find, or dig, a hole in the ground
Place a water collection container at the bottom, and in the center, of the hole
Loosely (not drum tight) cover the hole with a tarp or plastic across the entire diameter of the hole
Secure the covering around the top perimeter of the hole
Place a rock in the center of the covering so that the covering sags over the opening of the container
Ground moisture will condense on the inside of the plastic or tarp, and drip down toward the center and into the container
A solar still will provide 100% pure water, and will not require purification or boiling prior to drinking.
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August 11 For God did not give us a Spirit of fear but of power and love and self-control.    [2 Timothy 1:7]

   DEFENSE: Barricading Homebase
In April, we gave some ideas of fortifying the outside of the house without looking like a fortress. In this segment, we're kicking it up a notch or two. A serious severe weather or civil unrest situation may warrant a full barricade posture. Like any other plans we have made, the details and equipment of how this is to be accomplished should have already been developed and acquired and practiced. Board-up options should take into account that intruders can remove protection that has been installed on the outside so, while outside board-up may be fine for severe weather, it is not for intruders. Doors, windows and any other vulnerable areas must be fortified from the inside. As described in other areas of the Related Link, preventing your house from looking like a fortress will help to prevent intruders from knowing all of your methods of protection. Visit the Related Link for some considerations for a "full-fortification" stance.
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August 12 This is the day the Lord has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.    [Psalm 118:24]

   WATER: Can You Drink Too Much Water? Yes!
Water is the Essence of Life but there can be an overindulgence of H2O. It's called hyponatremia, or "water intoxication," and the effects range from uncomfortable to quite serious (Nausea and vomiting, Headache, Confusion, Loss of energy, drowsiness and fatigue, Restlessness and irritability, Muscle weakness, spasms or cramps, Seizures, Coma). The recommended consumption for most people is 32oz per day. Drink water only when you're thirsty; your body will, usually, tell you when it needs more but not to the point of dehydration (signs include Decreased urine output, Dry mouth and swollen tongue, Sluggishness and fatigue, Sugar cravings, Confusion, Dizziness, Fainting, Heart palpitations).
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August 13 Though an army may encamp against me, my heart shall not fear; though war may rise against me, in this I will be confident.    [Psalm 27:3]

   COMMUNICATIONS: THE Most Important Communication for Emergency Planning
Your Emergency Plan MUST be shared with every member of your family/team (printed and on a USB drive for each member)
The Plan must be Practiced by every member with every other member
Everyone must know how to respond to any of the "what if" scenarios
How to get in touch with one another when an emergency happens when you are apart
Places to meet even if you can't communicate with one another at the moment of the emergency
List of friends/family who can coordinate communications or a destination to gather
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August 14 One thing I have desired of the Lord, that will I seek: That I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the Lord, and to inquire in His temple.    [Psalm 27:4]

   SKILLS: Learn to Drive a Stick (manual) Shift Vehicle
I taught two teen friends of mine to drive my stick-shift car. After those training sessions, I had to replace the clutch and transmission. But it was worth it when one of my friends, later in life, took a trip to Iceland where only manual transmission vehicles could be rented. When he returned to the States, he thanked me for teaching him how to drive a stick. He said the only challenge he had was driving the SUV from the other (passenger [USA]) side.

When SHTF, transportation is going to be at an all time demand. The odds of getting away from danger and to a safer location may be greater with access to a vehicle.

According to U.S. News and World Report, the number of United States drivers that can drive a stick (manual) shift vehicle, in some states, is as low as just 18%! Many millenials may have never even seen a stick shift and car manufacturers are eliminating the production of manual/stick passenger vehicles.

If you want to increase your odds of being able to find some kind of transportation when you need it, learn to drive a stick shift vehicle. Those people who can't drive a stick shift will bypass those cars, trucks, and tractors, leaving them available for you. This also means if you have a stick shift vehicle as your Bug Out Vehicle, there will be a great number of people who won't steal it, simply because they don't know how to shift it!

Additionally, older stick vehicles may be easier to maintain because of less electronics.
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August 15 Taste and see that the Lord is good. Oh, the joys of those who take refuge in him!    [Psalm 34:8]

   DEFENSE: Keep Personal Information Private
Keeping personal information out of the hands of unauthorized persons is a must for an overall defense plan. While security of electronic information is obvious, daily actions must be adjusted to protect trash, snail-mail, vehicle information, residential security, family protection and more.
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August 16 And having chosen them, He called them to come to Him. And having called them, He gave them right standing with Himself. And having given them right standing, He gave them His glory. What shall we say about such wonderful things as these? If God is for us, who can ever be against us?    [Romans 8:30-31]

   FOOD: Reduce Dependency on Commercial Food – Grow or Buy Locally
Nearly any food you can buy at the grocery store can be made/grown at home often with the tools and equipment you already have. It can be less expensive and always tastes better – but it takes a little practice. Breaking commercial food dependency is important and another step to self-sufficiency and a way to control what goes into your family’s food.
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August 17 The Lord's acts of mercy are not exhausted, His compassion is not spent; They are renewed each morning - great is Your faithfulness!    [Lamentations 3:22-23]

   SHELTER: Reasons Why A Tiny House Is A Great Idea
The tiny house movement has been growing steadily for years. But living in a tiny house has not been fully realized. Visit the Related Link for articles and photos to learn more.
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August 18 The Lord is far away from the wicked, but He always hears the prayers of those who do what is right.    [Proverbs 15:29]

   SKILLS: Methods to Escape from Handcuffs, Zip Ties & Duct Tape
Get ready to learn some life skills – Here are a bunch of different ways to escape from restraints.
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August 19 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.    [1 John 1:9]

   MEDICAL: Social Media Detoxification - Take Back Control of Your Time
Reduce Use of Social Media and Technology. They can be quite addicting, time-consuming and full of the drama of others. While social media can be a great force for good, when misused, it can affect one negatively including reduction of privacy and anonymity.

Are you victimized by technology; is technology controlling you? When technology fails, will you stop functioning like the machines you rely on or will you have the skills and tools to live life as usual? Get back to basics and off the techno-insanity.
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August 20 If you think you can fool God, you are only fooling yourselves. You will harvest what you plant. If you live to satisfy your sinful self, the harvest you will get from that will be eternal death. But if you live to please the Spirit, your harvest from the Spirit will be eternal life.    [Galatians 6:7-8]

   TOOLS: Recycling – Benefits of Taking Responsibility for a Better Environment
Recycling is a simple way every person can contribute to making a cleaner environment. But, surely, there must be more benefits of recycling than just reducing the amount of trash we throw out. It takes time and effort to collect, separate and send away the trash. But the fact is that there are many ways in which this process can save us money and time by repurposing, for our own use, things we use everyday; newspapers into fire bricks, aluminum cans and plastic bottles melted into tools, composting, etc. Before you trash something, think first of how it can be reused for your own personal benefit.
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August 21 Those who find wisdom are fortunate; they will be blessed when they gain understanding. Profit that comes from wisdom is better than silver and even the finest gold. Wisdom is worth more than fine jewels. Nothing you desire has more value. With her right hand, Wisdom offers long life - with the other hand, riches and honor. Wisdom will lead you to a life of joy and peace.    [Proverbs 3:13-17]

   MEDICAL: Natural Remedies for Joint Pain and Stiffness
Millions of Americans, with joint pain and stiffness, most likely rely on some type of painkiller, whether prescription or over-the-counter, just to get through the day. Unfortunately, some drugs come with very nasty side effects. Visit the Related Link for some natural alternatives.
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August 22 As one piece of iron sharpens another, so friends keep each other sharp.    [Proverbs 27:17]

   HEALTH: Lose Weight - Reverse Type 2 Diabetes - Eat More Fat
Eat more FAT, reduce Protein intake and stop eating Carbohydrates. Dr. Sarah Hallberg, Nina Teicholz and others explain in the Related Link.
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August 23 For I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from His love. Death can't, and life can't. The angels won't, and all the powers of hell itself cannot keep God's love away.    [Romans 8:38-39]

   DEFENSE: Back to School Safety Training & Tools for Our Children
Along with school supplies, it's as important to provide our children with the knowledge and tools that could save their lives and those of their classmates and faculty in an emergency. Don't assume the school will take on this important responsibility. Provide them with some physical protection (like a bullet-proof backpack) and basic mini survival kit and teach them Situational Awareness, Self-Defense, good Health and Hygiene practices and how to respond with an Active Shooter or Environmental Disaster. Visit the Related Link for tools to consider.
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August 24 . . . I have learned to be satisfied with what I have and with whatever happens. I know how to live when I am poor and when I have plenty. I have learned the secret of how to live through any kind of situation - when I have enough to eat or when I am hungry, when I have everything I need or when I have nothing. Christ is the one who gives me the strength I need to do whatever I must do.    [Philippians 4:10-13]

   FINANCES: Itemize Inventory of Home Assets for Insurance Purposes
Preparing for an emergency includes the ability to recover from a loss. If homeowners need to file an insurance claim, they need to be able to prove all the valuable items they own, if they want to get their money's worth. So, it's important to have an updated inventory of their home. It's not as difficult as it sounds. Use a smart phone to video the home and contents and do a commentary on what is being viewed. Save to a USB drive or the Cloud for safe keeping. To stay current, promptly record and save new valuable purchases information.
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August 25 But the Lord said to Samuel, "Eliab is tall and handsome, but don't judge by things like that. God doesn't look at what people see. People judge by what is on the outside, but the Lord looks at the heart. Eliab is not the right man."    [1 Samuel 16:7]

   TOOLS: The Many Uses of WD40
It's not just for squeaks and rusted metal anymore. WD40 has proven to be a great cleaning and adhesive-removal product and so much more.
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August 26 It is good to learn what pleases the Lord, because He condemns those who plan to do wrong.    [Proverbs 12:2]

   DEFENSE: Are Your Home Security Cameras a Security Risk?
Web-based security cameras have become popular to keep an eye on our homes, children or pets while we are away. But they could be vulnerable to hacking and risk providing criminals visual access to the premises or having images of homes and loved ones published online. First, and foremost, buy cameras with Advanced Encryption, Secure the Home Network Router, use a strong password for accessing the camera/system/router, limit the number of network devices, Upgrade Camera Firmware and Install Firewalls and Antivirus Software.
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August 27 The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in Him, and He helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise Him.    [Psalm 28:7]

   SHELTER: Survival Bunkers - The Ultimate Survival Backup Plan
They can prove to be very useful when it's time to batten down the hatches. But they can quickly throw a wrench into survival plans if they aren't designed and built properly. The main weaknesses of an underground bunker are a Weak Entrance, Poor Air Circulation and improper Waste Management (sewage and garbage). Here are some designs and recommendations to review if you are inclined to consider this level of survival shelter. Buried Shipping Containers not recommended.
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August 28 Stay away from the love of money; be satisfied with what you have. For God has said, "I will never, never fail you nor forsake you." That is why we can say without any doubt or fear, "The Lord is my Helper, and I am not afraid of anything that mere man can do to me."    [Hebrews 13:5-6]

   MEDICAL: DIY Eye Care & Vision Preparedness
. . . it is recommended to deal with medical issues BEFORE a societal collapse occurs. Bad eyesight [correction] might be one of those issues. It also helps to know how to self-treat many eye injuries and ailments.
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August 29 We also have joy with our troubles, because we know that these troubles produce patience. And patience produces character, and character produces hope. And this hope will never disappoint us, because God has poured out his love to fill our hearts. He gave us his love through the Holy Spirit, whom God has given to us.    [Romans 5:3-5]

   PERSONAL CARE: Essential Oils and Their Thousands of Uses and Benefits
They've been used for thousands of years in various cultures for medicinal and health purposes. Their uses range from aromatherapy, household cleaning, pest control, personal care, natural medicine treatments and more. Learn to harness the power of the world’s most proven therapeutic compounds.
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August 30 But remember this - the wrong desires that come into your life aren't anything new and different. Many others have faced exactly the same problems before you. And no temptation is irresistible. You can trust God to keep the temptation from becoming so strong that you can't stand up against it, for He has promised this and will do what He says. He will show you how to escape temptation's power so that you can bear up patiently against it.    [1 Corinthians 10:13]

   PLANNING: Practice the 10 Commandments of Survival
The world is still scary. At best, all we can do is to continue to learn to be self-reliant and independent to keep our sanity and ability to think rationally under stress. These 10 commandments of survival were set down to help cope with the anxiety and sense of uncertainty about our future as citizens of the world. #1: Have the will to live, #2: Be self-sufficient, #3: Seek truth and knowledge (research), #4: Adapt to the surroundings, #5: Embrace decisiveness, #6: Channel fear into positive actions, #7: Defend your right to freedom, #8: Respect others, #9: Pursue love and laughter, #10: Be authentic.
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August 31 There will be sorrow and suffering for Jews and Gentiles alike who keep on sinning. But there will be glory and honor and peace from God for all who obey Him, whether they are Jews or Gentiles. For God treats everyone the same.    [Romans 2:9-11]

   FINANCES: Mastering Needs and Wants
In a world prone to instant gratification and bombarded by marketing tactics to buy things I don't need, I must ask myself the question "do I NEED this or do I WANT it?" Is it a necessity for my survival or to perform an important task, or is it something I want, just because? This usually saves lots of money and prevents accumulating unwanted junk to maintain a minimalist lifestyle.
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September 1 And we are sure of this, that He will listen to us whenever we ask Him for anything in line with His will. And if we really know He is listening when we talk to Him and make our requests, then we can be sure that He will answer us.    [1 John 5:14-15]

   PLANNING: No Grocery Shopping for 30 Days Challenge - National Preparedness Month (September)
OK; for the first 8 months of this Tip-A-Day Skills page, the emphasis has been on preparing for the unknown. Don't just read about preparedness, practice it; live it. How long can you survive without grocery store shopping? Take this 30-Day Challenge. How long will you last? You don't have to start today but you are challenged to start preparing now to live without grocery shopping for 30 days. How's your level of food storage? Do you grow vegetables/fruits garden/trees? Do you raise animals that can produce food? Do you have things you can barter/trade to obtain the food you need? Use the Related Links to get started. You can do it! Good Luck!
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September 2 You are the world's light — a city on a hill, glowing in the night for all to see. Don't hide your light! Let it shine for all; let your good deeds glow for all to see, so that they will praise your heavenly Father.    [Matthew 5:14-16]

Click to enlarge photo    FIRE: Transporting Fire from One Location to Another
If matches and other man-made fire-starters are not available, starting a fire with friction and natural materials is quite difficult. So, once a fire going, it's not "disposable" but rather something to "recycle", if possible. The goal with fire carrying is to allow a preexistent ember to potentially last for hours on the journey from one place to another. Pair the ember with a material that will smolder (helping keep the ember alive), without itself burning up. Materials that strike this needed balance include things like punky wood, fungus, or pine cones. Once the ember is paired with smolder-friendly materials, wrap this coupling in wet moss that will hold things together without burning. Plan on babysitting the ember during the move. You may have to periodically blow on it or adjust the packaging to ensure the right mix of oxygen and fuel. After arriving at the new camp, unpack the ember, place it in dry tinder, and blow the fire back to life. Practice a few fire-carrying techniques while a good working fire is available. Practicing methods beforehand will help refine the process and provide an idea of how long the ember will last. Save time starting a fire or avoid wet conditions that reduce the chances of starting a fire from scratch; carry the fire with you. Here are some suggestions:
Fungus Fire Carry
1: Find bracket fungi – a type of hard fungus that grows on tree trunks.
2: Break off a chunk, hold it to an ember until it begins to smolder, then loosely wrap in moss to carry.
Ember Box
1: Gather charcoal, moss, and a ventilated container like a tin can or even a seashell.
2: Line the bottom of the container with moss, then add charcoal, and an ember. Cover with moss and close the container.
Ember Bundle
1: Gather thin twigs, dry leaves, and other tinder, as well as strips of bark and moss.
2: Place an ember in the dry material and then wrap it tightly in the bark and moss like a cigar. Actually, keeping a lit cigar alive is even better.
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September 3 Put God in charge of your work, then what you've planned will take place.    [Proverbs 16:3]

   PLANNING: Don't wait for a Job Loss to happen. Make a Plan-B
Unlike the days when our parents worked for the same company for 30+ years, today's world is a very fickle place. No matter how long you have been at a company, or where you are in your career, losing your job is always a possibility with full-time employment. What would you do if you lost your primary source of income in today's volatile and uncertain economy? Always have a Plan-B source of income. Have at least one part time job or self-owned business (a hobby turned money-maker) and work/grow on that Plan-B income so that it is able to sustain you if other options take a dive.
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September 4 Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.    [Colossians 3:23-24]

   SKILLS: Never Stop Learning New Skills
So what can be the most useful survival or prepping hacks and skills that can get you out of any hitch? There just isn't one, not two but a lot of them. We will never know what nature, or humans, can throw at us on any given day wherever we are and whatever we may be doing. That's why we should learn to be skillful in so many things and pass them on to our children for their safety and benefit.
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September 5 So do not consume yourselves with questions: What will we eat? What will we drink? What will we wear? Outsiders make themselves frantic over such questions; they don't realize that your heavenly Father knows exactly what you need. Seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, and then all these things will be given to you too. So don’t worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today's trouble is enough for today.    [Matthew 6:31-34]

   TOOLS: Practical Uses for Urine (Pee)
The body uses Urine to flush excess salt and toxins from the body. It is not sterile. Drinking it puts the salt and toxins back inside the body and will accelerate dehydration and may cause other health complications. Never drink pee unless it is, first, distilled. But there are some surprising survival uses for it: To keep warm, to keep cool, as a laundry stain remover and household cleaner, as a plant fertilizer, to tan animal hides, for toothpaste, mouthwash and cavity prevention and making gun powder. The only safe way to drink urine is to distill it into potable drinking water using a Solar Still or other distillation process.
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September 6 Observe people who are good at their work - skilled workers are always in demand and admired; they don't take a backseat to anyone.    [Proverbs 22:29]

   DEFENSE: Prevent and Survive a Home Invasion
You are 8 times more likely to be involved in a home invasion attack than a house fire. A home invasion is when intruders forcefully enter your house, whether for the thrill of it or to rob you and take your family hostage. They do not take place only in high-crime areas. They also occur in suburbs and rural areas. These attacks are more common than most people think. Always be aware of your surroundings and apply home defense measures. Use the Related Link to plan a home defense strategy against a violent home invasion.
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September 7 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   HEAT: Burning Answers About Using Firewood to Heat and Cook
Many homeowners, all over the world, use firewood to heat their homes and cook. Some use it year round. A bit less convenient, especially when sleeping, than other home-heating/cooking options there is the need to constantly feed wood into the stove to maintain the fire. There are some methods (outdoor wood furnace) to make wood-burning a bit more convenient and safer and integral with an existing heating system. Wood-burning is a dryer heat and provides a relaxed, comforting ambience when the flame is visible. With the prices of other home-heating and cooking fuels, firewood is, usually, a better value with a renewable source of fuel available nearly everywhere. Consider adding a wood-burning stove as a backup for home heating/cooking. Visit the Related Link for some facts about using firewood to heat or cook.
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September 8 Now that we know what we have - Jesus, this great High Priest with ready access to God - let's not let it slip through our fingers. We don't have a priest who is out of touch with our reality. He's been through weakness and testing, experienced it all - all but the sin. So let's walk right up to Him and get what He is so ready to give. Take the mercy, accept the help.    [Hebrews 4:15-16]

   TOOLS: Build an Essential Preparedness Library
Build an Essential Library of MUST HAVE manuals on Keeping Personal Information Safe, Food Storage, handling a Martial Law situation, designing a Home Survival Plan to transform the home into a rock-solid bunker and lots more. The first three (3) recommendations are a good general Wilderness Survival manual, an Advanced First Aid manual and a Wild Edible Plants manual in printed and electronic forms. Printed in case of a power outage and electronic for easy access and search capabilities when power is available.
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September 9 Good people obtain favor from the Lord, but He condemns those who devise wicked schemes.    [Proverbs 12:2]

   PLANNING: Pre-Calculate How an Emergency Can Impact Life by Doing a Risk Analysis
A Risk Analysis is a method by which a fairly-accurate assessment can be made of determining your preparedness level and the quantity of supplies you will need. This may sound complicated but don't let the phrase scare you. Make a list of people or things (assets) that are of value. Determine what Hazards, Threats and Nasty Events could happen. Guesstimate how probable (likely/often) each event could occur. When the Event happens, how will it impact anything on the assets list? A Risk Analysis helps identify all of the possible threats that can disrupt our way of life and helps prepare for those threats, including supplies and things that can be done, to reduce damage and impact. It's not a difficult process and it helps to prepare, not only our lives, but our minds as well. A sample prepared spreadsheet is available, at the Related Link, for download to begin your personal customized Risk Analysis.
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September 10 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   SKILLS: How to Open a Can of Food Without a Can Opener
To prevent metal shavings from contaminating the contents and injury with sharp tools, rub the can's lid/bottom rim on hard rough concrete/rock until the seal is broken. This and other options are revealed at the following links. Additionally, after eating the contents, the can is useful as a container for many purposes. The rim of the can is the weakest part of the can so weakening the rim even more is the key, even using a spoon. Prepare4Tomorrow is more than showing cute little tricks, it's helping you use your head for more than a hat rack; to think beyond the obvious. Learn to do things in unconventional ways.
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September 11 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   DEFENSE: Practice Situational Awareness Because There is No Safe Place
Situational Awareness has a lot to do with understanding what's going on around you at all times. This means that you know what people are doing, what threats are in the area, what resources you have at your disposal, and what you can do, where you can go, to get out of a situation if it turns hostile. Take out the earbuds, stop looking down at the smartphone, look people in the eye as you pass by them and pay attention to what's going on around you and think of "what-if" scenarios where you are at any given time. Example: Notice where the movie theater exits are located as you watch the movie. What would you do if a shooting or fire broke out? What do you have on you or around you that could improve your safety?
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September 12 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   TOOLS: The 11 Cs of a Survival/Emergency Kit
Listed below, in the order of importance, are the "basics" of a camping/survival/emergency bag. They have multiple uses by themselves and, when used in combination with other "Cs", with basic survival skills, common sense and a level head, solutions can be created for nearly any situation. All of these should be in easy reach anytime you venture outside your home. Obviously, some of these items would not normally begin with the letter "C" but are listed in this manner for the benefit of memorizing the list.
  • Cutting Tool (QUALITY multi-tool, knife, hatchet, machete, saw, etc. - for repairs, cutting, first aid, defense or making defense tools, hunting)
  • Combustion Device (matches, lighter, flint striker - for signaling, warmth, sterilizing, cooking)
  • Covering (tarp, tent, plastic sheeting, ground cloth, mylar emergency/space blanket, etc. - for shelter, make-shift tent, ground cover, rain catcher)
  • Canteen (container, water bottle, etc. - to carry and sterilize water and cook)
  • Cordage (rope, paracord, strong nylon string, fishing line, dental floss, etc. - suturing wounds, tying and hanging things, snares to catch food)
  • Candle (candles, glow sticks, solar or crank-flashlight, headlamp, etc. - for light and signaling)
  • Compass (map, GPS - for navigation)
  • Conduit Tape (duct, electrical, etc. - for repairs and bandaging)
  • Catgut Needle (for sewing materials and suturing wounds)
  • Cloth Fabric (chances you are already going to be wearing something that can be used for head covering, water filtering, bandaging, etc.)
  • Communicator (whistle or loud noise-maker to call for help & save your voice/strength).
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September 13 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   TOOLS: Making a Mini/Pocket Emergency Kit:
We can never be too prepared when it comes to safety, but that doesn't mean our Emergency Kit should weigh us down. Pre-packaged "Pocket Emergency Kits" are, obviously, available online but there are tutorials to make the perfect DIY pocket-sized kit to keep with you at all times. Keep one in the glove box, purse or backpack, on the belt, in the tackle box or in the kitchen drawer; anything you always have with you and anywhere you spend your time. It should contain all the supplies (11-Cs) needed in case of emergency to always stay prepared. Visit the Related Links to purchase or learn how to build your own.
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September 14 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

     Survival Basics - Rules of Three (3):
Survival, at the most basic level, is staying alive despite circumstances. Those who want to improve their survival chances, must concentrate on the main factors of human survival. To help guide this thought methodology, there is the "Rule of Threes" regarding Air, Shelter, Water, Food and Hope.
AIR - 3 minutes without fresh air can cause unconsciousness or death
SHELTER - 3 hours in extreme weather can kill -- Build Shelter, start a fire (heat, cook, purify, boost morale) & make bedding to rest the body.
WATER - 3 days without drinking water (32 ounces per day), dehydration sets in & organs shut down. Find, Collect or Filter Water.
FOOD - 3 weeks without food, physical troubles set in -- Hunt, Fish or Gather Food
HOPE - 3 months without hope reduces the will to go on. Do things to stay busy and build morale.
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September 15 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   TOOLS: Keep Buttons From Falling Off Using Nail Polish:
Before you wear that new shirt or when your first see a button thread fraying, use this to prevent the botton from falling off. Apply nail polish or Crazy Glue on the front & back threads of the buttons.
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September 16 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   The 3-Lemon System for Evaluating Survival Risks:
The 3-Lemon System is used to score how safe it is to continue a course of action. "Lemons" are bad circumstances like injury, illness, exhaustion, bad weather, damaged equipment, etc. At 3 lemons (bad circumstances), stop and re-evaluate the decision to continue onward, fix the conditions, if possible, or discontinue (get out) if necessary.
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September 17 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   S.T.O.P. when an emergency occurs.
Stop & calmly analyze the situation.
Think of what you need to do to survive the situation.
Observe surroundings & look for familiar landmarks.
Plan out the next best course of action.
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September 18 The Lord's angel builds a camp around His followers, and He protects them.    [Psalm 34:7]

   DEFENSE: Weapons of Opportunity - Use Everyday Objects for Self-Defense
Always be aware of your surroundings (situational awareness - what's going on around you) and prepared to defend yourself. Attackers don't care if they hurt you. Don't be afraid to hurt them (no rules) and fight until the threat stops. Carry items that are immediately available to stave off animals or human predators at a safe distance; Everyday Carry Items That Can Also Be Used for Self-Defense. Prepare yourself for use; practice with, and test, all tools thoroughly before actual use. Consider:
On the Street - Pepper spray, knife, cane, umbrella, flashlight, pen, water bottle, keys, cell phone, or anything in your hand to swing (purse, loaded grocery bag, etc.) or throw and your body (kick them in the shins/groin, elbow to the chest, head to the chin, scratch their eyes). Take self-defense lessons.
In the Wild - walking stick, shave a point on one end to make a SPEAR, a simple ROCK, a CLUB made with a shorter, heavier piece of wood or by securely lashing rock and stick together.
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September 19 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   Morale - Keeping Spirits High When Life Sucks
In life, curve balls always come out of nowhere. Something unexpected happens that throws us off our game. . . . When this happens, we suffer fear, disappointment, vulnerability, and a loss of control. In general, life sucks. But there are ways to recover. Building Morale is Crucial in any challenging situation. Build a fire, take a bath/shower, dry out, put on clean, dry clothes, have fun, play a game or instrument for a psychological boost. Get good sleep. Rejoice in small victories. Shrug off failures.
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September 20 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   Think S-U-R-V-I-V-A-L in an Emergency:
S = Size up the situation - What's going on? Identify your threats & strengths
U = Use all senses - Consider all aspects of the situation - no quick decisions
R = Remember where you are - Focus on what's around & direction to go
V = Vanquish fear and panic - clear your head and stay calm
I = Improvise - think of unique ways to use what is available
V = Value living - you need the will to survive
A = Assess uses for what you are wearing, carrying and what's around you
L = Live by your wits - remember (or learn) basic survival skills
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September 21 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   SAFETY: Handling Injuries, Illness & First Aid in the Wild
Mistakes can be costly. The best way to deal with injury or illness it to avoid it. Injury/illness makes a bad situation turn worse, especially in the wild. Don't take chances or cut corners on safety/sanitation. Having a First Aid Manual and First Aid Kit on hand will assist with treating potential injuries and illnesses.
1. Don't use any body parts, except hands, to break wood
2. Re-think before eating or drinking anything from the wild
3. Keep wounds clean, dry & covered to avoid infection or contamination
4. Keep skin, especially feet, dry to avoid fungus, leading to severe injury
5. No first aid kit? Improvise with what you wear, carry, find or plant life
6. Pine sap: disinfect & cover wounds, stops bleeding & chew for sore throat
7. Plain sugar poured into a wound keeps it clean and aids healing
8. [Activated] Charcoal is an effective water & airborne contaminates filter. Scraped from burnt [hard] wood or purchased, crush & sandwich a thick layer between 2 cloth pieces to breathe thorough or strain water. Helps heal wounds. Mixing & drinking in clean water, treats diarrhea & internal poisoning.
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September 22 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   DIY: Recycle Wooden Pallets to Make Nearly Anything
Wooden pallets are common near stores, industrial parks and dumpster areas. Their size, shape, durability and construction make them ideal for nearly any project as-is or broken down for other purposes. From sheds to furniture, decks or shelving, the re-use of the simple Wooden Pallet is limited only by ones imagination. Generally, they are free and come with the nails needed to reshape its next life. Pick your project then search the web for building instructions or come up with your own. The possibilities are endless.
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September 23 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

Knots to Know for Survival:

Knowing how to tie the correct knot in a rope for the situation keeps things secure and in control.
1. Bowline - for hanging food in a tree to keep it away from predators, in emergency rescues because the knot makes a loop to get a leg or arm through, for securing animals, such as horses, cattle, and goats because it doesn't slip or tighten very much, so it's gentle on the animal's neck.
2. Clove Hitch - to lash anything together
3. Figure-Eight - for climbing, where safety is paramount and most widely used tie-in knot by mountain climbers
4. Sheet Bend - used to tie different ropes together despite varying rope thickness and material
5. Tautline Hitch - most useful for tents and lashing things down so that they don't move
Learn How to Tie Other Knots Here
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September 24 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   SKILLS: Learn About Trees That Can Improve Survival
- Birch (drink, container, fire starter, adhesive)
- Basswood (food, cordage, fire drills, carving)
- Pine (patching, adhesive, antiseptic, wound covering, stop bleeding, fire tinder, food, Vitamin C, treat sore throat, insulation, bedding, shelter roof, waterproofing, lamp, cordage)
- Oak (bread flour, anti-bacterial, antiseptic, anti-diarrhea, squirrel trap bait, leather tanning, ax handle, digging stick, shelter framework, tinder bundle)
- Maple (energy drink, food, cooking utensils, hunting bow)
- Willow (pain releiver, cordage, baskets, fire drills)
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September 25 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   FOOD: How to Harvest, Process and Eat Acorns
Acorns, the fruits of Oak Trees, are edible, all of them. Depending on the species, acorns range in fat content from 1.1 to 31.3 %, protein from 2.3 to 8.6 %, and carbs from 32.7 to 89.7 %. Most need special processing to remove the bitter tannic acid ("Leach" by boiling or crushing and soaking). Gathering from Sept. thru March, many prefer sprouting's during Feb. and March. There are three ways to eat acorns; as nuts (a lot like chestnuts) and making acorn flour or acorn oil for cooking.
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September 26 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   SKILLS: Learn to Properly Use Log Cutting Tools
Log Cutting Tools are useful for making a difficult task easier. Learning how to properly use these tools will make the task even easier and safer. The following tools are recommended to learn for proper use: Axe, Sledgehammer and Wedge, Hatchet, Bow Saw, Chainsaw, Saws-All (Reciprocating Saw) and Log Splitter.
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September 27 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   SKILLS: Make a Survival Torch Light
Light provides comfort, protection and mobile signaling. Without a lantern or flashlight, you may want to build a torch from trees, plants or other available materials. The best tree to use is fresh Pine but others with flammable sap (like Birch) will work as well to allow for slow burning.
- Cut or break a branch, as close to the tree trunk as possible, 3-4 inches in diameter then cut or break to the length to serve your purpose of carrying or sticking in the ground to be more permanent.
- Remove the bark about 8-10 inches on each end.
- At the tree-trunk end (which should be getting damp with sap), split it twice (to form an X) to make 4 sections and split down 6-8 inches without splitting it completely.
- Spread the sections apart and stuff green twigs into the split to hold it open to fill the center with wood chips or other burnable materials.
- Make cut marks on the outside of the torch end to help the torch burn more efficiently.
- Ignite the material inside the torch with your fire. For the first 2-3 minutes, keep the torch sheltered from the wind. You may have to hold the torch on its side or upside down to ensure that the initial flames heat the sap enough to create a sustained burning.
- Other torch methods to consider are cloth, tape, paper, vines and other materials wrapped around a stick or building a mini-fire inside a container for mobile light.
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September 28 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   WATER: Finding, Collecting and Purifying Water
Water keeps a body hydrated. The average person should consume about 32 ounces per day. Lack of, or contaminated, causes dehydration. Physical activities and food intake create the need for more.
1. Follow game trails, animals and insects to water sources. Lush vegetation may indicate an underground source. Eating/drinking clean snow/ice is OK. Find water on the surface of, or inside, plants.
2. Collect water: If a body of water is not available, build a rain collector, a Solar Still in the ground or container, soak up morning dew with a cloth, use a Transpiration Bag or other water collection methods. A solar still can make fresh, clean water from salt water or contaminated water.
3. All water collected from the ground or vegetation can be purified by boiling, chlorine (bleach), iodine and charcoal (see Misc. Tips section)
4. Use a commercial water filtering device or tablets or boil dirty water for 10 minutes
5. Place five drops of 2% tincture of iodine in a canteen full of clear water. If it is dirty, place 10 drops. Let canteen stand for 30 minutes before drinking.
6. Add 2 drops of regular, unscented, bleach for every quart of water. 8 drops for every gallon. 1/2 teaspoon per every 5 gallons. If water is dirty, double the dose. Let sit for 30 minutes before drinking. Water should have a slight bleach odor, if not, add another drop. Wait 15 minutes.
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September 29 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   FOOD: Finding Food in the Wild:
Avoid eating critters raw. Cook or boil for several minutes or noticeably done. Smoke extra food, for later eating, by drying it close to, not in, a fire.
1. On the whole, aquatic environments are much more productive [to find food] than terrestrial (land) habitats so finding a body of water like ponds, wetlands or any other standing or slow moving water will produce quicker food source results.
2. Reptiles and Amphibians, collectively called "herpetofauna," (creeping things) are extremely abundant in many areas and can provide a ready and stable food source.
3. Insects are the best food source - Yeah, it's gross. But insects are always available and full of protein. Anything under 1 inch is game. Roast them to make more palatable. As a general rule, DON'T eat insects that are brightly-colored, hairy or have a potent smell (except stinkbugs). If in doubt about its edibility, cut off a tiny, cooked piece of it, swallow it, and wait a few hours. If you don't develop any symptoms, eat a larger piece and wait again. If nothing happens, it's probably fine.
4. Edible Plants are another option but much caution is needed to make sure they are not poisonous. As a general rule, DON'T eat plants that have shiny leaves, milky or colored sap, any sort of spines, thorns or fine hairs, seeds inside pods, beans and bulbs, bitter or soapy taste, stems that have an almond scent, three-leaved growth patterns, white or yellow berries, umbrella-shaped flowers, grain heads with spurs that are pink, purple or black.
5. Hunting with Snares and deadfalls will be your best passive methods. Animal tracking will help identify trails where to set traps. Hunting can be a huge waste of time and energy resulting in dehydration with no food. If you are in dire straits, you must conserve energy and water. Reconsider plants and insects.
6. Fishing is a great option - but use a fishing weir; a trap placed in shallow water that lets fish swim in and prevents them from swimming out. It's easier than actively fishing and allows time to do more important things. Just come back and spear the trapped fish; like shooting fish in a barrel.
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September 30 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   COMMUNICATIONS: Signaling for Help
Some attention-getters are man-made geometric patterns such as straight lines, circles, triangles, or X's displayed in open, uninhabited areas. The universal signs of 3 markers or an "X" indicate trouble. Be ready, at a moments notice, to use the signal.
1. Use Noise-makers (whistle, banging rocks or sticks together). Avoid shouting to conserve energy & prevent injury to your throat. DO NOT use audible signals if you do not want to alert unwelcome rescuers (bad guys).
2. Build a signal fire to create dark smoke (using rubber or plastic)
3. In a clearing, setup contrasting materials (like branches on snow) as signal markings and direction of travel (arrow)
4. A shiny object (mirror) can create a flash of sun toward a craft or people
5. Use a flare gun or Sea (water) Dye Markers
6. Use a firearm to shoot 3 shots (universal sign of distress) in the air
7. Spread clothing on the ground or in the top of a tree
8. Shine a flash light at a plane, boat or people
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October 1 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   PLANNING: Get Familiar With Your Gear
Face-to-face with an emergency is NOT the time to learn how to use your survival gear. Take time to review available supplies and know how to use them BEFORE the need arises.
• Look at, and slowly handle, each item to learn how it works.
• Rehearse, in your mind, why each item is significant, and what role it will fill in any scenario.
• Recall any past experience, information, and training that each item has been used.
• Secure Gear. Place each item securely in your pack, in proper order for use. Keep everything tied down or zipped closed.
• Exercise and drill with "full gear" to understand personal limits and adjust if needed.
• ALWAYS keep your pack on your person or within direct arm's reach.
• Never wander away from your pack to, possibly, forget where you left it.
• Never place your pack on a slope, hill, or ledge to, possibly, fall or roll away.
• Never leave items laying randomly on the ground, making them hard to find.
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October 2 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   NAVIGATION: Finding Your Way Out
Generally, stay where you are if you're lost, especially at night, if you are injured or near exhaustion. Stop, look and listen for familiar signs of civilization. Calmly and methodically develop a plan to go in that direction.
1. Without a compass, map or GPS device, remember the basic directional marker, the Sun; rising in the East and setting in the West. First, you must have an idea of what direction to take to reach civilization or other desired destination.
2. Getting to higher ground may help get your bearings and determine the best route to take
3. Travel in a straight line. Use landmarks to follow a straight line between two points ahead and line them up, and do the same thing looking back.
4. When possible, make noticeable marks along your path to help stay on your heading and help others find you
5. Following a drainage or stream downhill or downstream (except in Africa) may lead toward larger bodies of water and civilization.
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October 3 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   SHELTER: Plants can Help Clean Indoor Air
Houseplants are very efficient at removing indoor air contaminants, such as carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides (released by burning wood) and formaldehyde, benzene and trichloroethylene released by interior furnishings like carpet, curtains, furniture, paint and insulation referred to as volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Plants that are most effective at removing contaminants tend to have large leaf surfaces, like heart-leaf and elephant ear. A study recommends at least fifteen 10-12-inch container plants for a 1,800-square-foot home located near where you spend most of your time indoors.
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October 4 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   DEFENSE: Fire/Smoke/CO Prevention, Detection and Drills
October is National Fire Prevention Month in the U.S.A. The goal is to raise fire safety awareness, and help ensure your home and family are protected. It should go without saying that part of defense and safety is the detection, and methods to respond to, Fire, Smoke and Carbon Monoxide. Detectors are available for all 3 and should be installed, as well as Fire Extinguishers at strategic locations throughout the home or office. Detectors should be tested 2-4 times a year and batteries should be replaced at least once a year (New Years Day is suggested). Having an Emergency Escape Plan, and testing it periodically, is also essential. Use this post as your reminder to take these steps to protect your home and family [and business] from Smoke, Fire and Carbon Monoxide.
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October 5 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   SKILLS: Survive in The Desert
1. Don't move unless you know exactly where you are, where you want to go, or have a map. Chances of rescue are better if you stay in one place.
2. Major threats are Exposure (Sun during day. Cold at night) and Dehydration. Wear loose layers to protect against direct sunlight on head, face and body. Wear a hat and goggles/glasses/scarf to avoid dust and debris harming eyes.
3. Ration water. Determine how much to drink by urine color. Light colored = fine. Dark color = drink. Purify any water before drinking it.
4. Stay hungry. Eating makes you thirsty which affects your water rationing. Nibble and snack on food.
5. Find/Build Shelter: Day temperatures can fry you; night temperatures can freeze. Find a safe place and build shelter to avoid the elements. Store food/water/materials inside the shelter.
6. Watch for spiders, snakes, insects and other animals that can harm you. Keep food sealed to not attract animals.
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October 6 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   SKILLS: Survive in the Tropics
1. Everything thrives in a jungle (germs, disease, parasites, animals). This also means there is plenty to drink, eat, and provide shelter.
2. Weather is unpredictable with sudden rains, winds and storms. Never venture too far from a safe place or your shelter for protection.
3. Water can be hard to find. Use all senses; listen for waterfall and follow animals to water. In a muddy river bank, dig a hole 3 feet from the water's edge. Clear water should filter into the hole. Palm trees, roots, and vines also provide drinkable water.
4. Animals are a good source of protein. Plants are also sources of food but some might not be safe to eat. Unless you have knowledge of what to eat, try bamboo, fruits and palms.
5. Watch for quicksand. It won't kill you; the human body is far denser. Worst case is being sucked down just above the waist and won't be able to get out, leading to thirst, starvation and death. Walk with a big stick that can help you exit. Avoid kicking or fighting it, but float. Make small circles with your feet to move the sand under you. Eventually, you will be able to float/walk out.
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October 7 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

SKILLS: Starting a Fire by Rubbing Sticks Together
  • 1 - Gather a fire bundle of dry grass or other material that will quickly catch fire.
  • 2 - Gather different sizes of wood, from small twigs to larger logs, to make a wood pile where you want to build your fire.
  • 3 - Find hard wood for your spindle and soft wood for your fire board.
  • 4 - Find an arm-length stick of sturdy wood for your bow and strong cordage to wrap around the spindle.
  • 5 - Find a piece of wood to be your handhold – this will protect your skin from the heat the spindle generates.
  • 6 - Use a knife or rock to carve out a hole for the spindle to sit in on the fire board.
  • 7 - Sit on one knee, and prop your wrist against your shin for maximum stability.
  • 8 - Pull your bow back and forth to allow the spindle to further carve out a hole in the fire board.
  • 9 - Carve a notch in the fire board to allow oxygen to mix with the wood dust created by the spindle.
  • 10 - Once again begin pulling your bow back and forth until a significant amount of smoke emerges from the fire board.
  • 11 - Move your embers from under the fire board to fine plant material.
  • 12 - Blow on the bundle to increase oxygen flow to the embers. Continue until the bundle produces flames.
  • 13 - Transfer your fire bundle to your fire wood pile, adding small twigs to larger wood as the fire progresses.
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October 8 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   TEAM: Importance of a Buddy System
Not only is it's always more fun to go on outdoor adventures with a friend or family member, but it's also much safer. Heading out alone can be a great respite from the everyday cares of the world, but a solo emergency situation is not so nice. The buddy system is a common procedure in which two people, the "buddies," work together for mutual benefit and operate together as a two-person team. Visit the Related Link for some good reasons to never go it alone.
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October 9 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

SKILLS: Surviving Thick Mud or Quicksand
Walking along and suddenly the ground beneath starts swallowing you. How do you keep from sinking further? How do you get out? Here's how:
  • Keep calm. Don't fight it. The more you resist, the more it will pull you in.
  • Try to remove shoes; they can make the sinking worse.
  • Get rid of a backpack or anything you are carrying that might weigh you down.
  • A walking stick may help distribute your body weight on the surface.
  • Breathe deeply to keep calm and make yourself more buoyant.
  • Work slowly and take frequent breaks to prevent exhaustion.
  • Lean back onto the surface. The more you spread out your weight, the harder it will be to sink.
  • Float on your back while you slowly and carefully pull your legs up toward the surface.
  • Once your legs are free, roll to one side and inch yourself to safety using a backstroke or sidestroke swimming motion.
  • When you get near the edge of the quicksand, roll to hard ground.
  • When free, promptly remove all sandy/muddy clothing to avoid chaffing and infection.
[Related Link 1]
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[Instructions]
[Video]
[News Article]
October 10 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   DEFENSE: Keep Government Out of Your Business - Stay Under the Radar
Across the world, our lives are being monitored as never before by government and private companies. Our liberties and freedom are violated. Much of our paycheck goes to government or spent on things we don't need. Some ways to be off the government grid and have less personal information "out there": Reduce your public exposure, become more Self-Sufficient, use cash and Barter for what you don't have or can't do. Implementing these methods all at once is not practical. Phase them in. Visit the Related Link to take the first step.
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October 11 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   SUPPLIES: Supply Acquisition Guidelines
We all like "stuff" but some of the stuff we acquire has limited and short-lived use or no use at all because it was acquired on a whim. Acquire supplies that will be used and fulfill a real purpose. These guidelines help stretch dollars, limit output of refuse and select items that are easy to transport and maintain should evacuation or relocation become necessary in an emergency. These are:
  • Durability - built strong and proven strong to take rough treatment and last a long time.
  • Utility - function over fashion; cargo pants for extra pockets, boots vs. sneakers, junky old diesel truck vs new car.
  • Multiple Uses - multi-tool, wok vs saucepan, clothing for work and church, web belt for pants or tourniquet.
  • Portability - Strong but light materials for packup-and-go and kind to the body.
  • Repairable/Salvageable - If is breaks, can I fix it?
  • Tradeable - can it be bartered for something else?
  • Energy - Manually is, generally, better but does it need batteries or electricity to function? If so, how easy to acquire?
  • Redundancy - for bartering, swapping parts, backup of ultra-useful items, available at multiple locations
[Related Link 1]
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October 12 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   SHELTER: Four W's for Choosing a Wilderness Shelter Site are critical elements when searching for a site to camp or build a shelter. Choose poorly and your adventure could turn ugly. Choosing wisely will increase your safety and comfort.
1 - Wind: Position on middle-high ground where wind is present but not too strong to impact the ability to keep a fire safely active and warm a shelter.
2 - Water: An area that can supply a steady source of water.
3 - Wood: Good source for firewood, building a shelter and resin trees (fatwood) for fire-starting and medicinal uses.
4 - Widowmakers: Free of large trees or branches that could present a safety hazard to you and the site if they fell.
[Related Link 1]
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October 13 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   SUPPLIES: Prioritize Survival Equipment/Supplies - Most Precious, Use Last
Your gear and supplies are not inexhaustible. Save the most precious resources as a last-ditch option. For example; never start a fire with a lighter if a magnesium fire-starter (ferro rod) is available and don't use the ferro rod if the sun (renewable resource) is available (using a magnifying glass). Hunt or gather off the land for food before eating your packaged, long-term food supply. Filter a natural water supply before drinking stored/bottled water. Visit the Related Link to learn how to prioritize and why.
[Related Link 1]
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October 14 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   TOOLS: 20+ Survival Uses for a Condom:
A latex condom can hold up to a gallon of water when filled carefully. They are over-engineered for their intended use so their strength enables more than 20+ amazing uses as listed in the Related Link.
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October 15 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   POWER: Choosing a Power Outage Generator
Multifuel (hybrid) Generators are best to obtain in case of fuel shortages. Additionally, Solar Generators (batteries charged by the sun) are another option. The size (watts) of generator to acquire will depend on what appliances you want to use during a power outage and your budget. Information on the Related Link will help to determine your generator needs.
[Related Link 1]
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October 16 Wisdom begins with respect for the Lord. And understanding begins with knowing God, the Holy One. If you live wisely, you will live a long time. Wisdom will add years to your life. The wise person is rewarded by his wisdom. But a person who makes fun of wisdom will suffer for it.    [Proverbs 9:10-12]

   TOOLS: Sharpen Knives Without a Sharpener
No knife sharpener? No problem. Information on the Related Link provides a few quick and easy tips to make knives good as new in only a few seconds without a sharpener. Some of these items can also be used as a wood or metal file.
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October 17 Of course we are human, but we don't fight like humans. The weapons we use in our fight are not made by humans. Rather, they are powerful weapons from God. With them we destroy people's defenses, that is, their arguments and all their intellectual arrogance that oppose the knowledge of God. We take every thought captive so that it is obedient to Christ.    [2 Corinthians 10:3-5]

   DEFENSE: Effectively Defending Yourself if Attacked:
No matter what age, size, or level of fitness; you can benefit from a class on self-defense. A very large part of knowing how to defend yourself is the ability to read a situation (situational awareness) - being aware of your surroundings and having the tools to avoid risky situations which includes an understanding of verbal deflection, de-escalation and deterrence. It should be obvious that avoiding, preventing and diffusing hostility is a better option than conflict. Visit the Related Link for details.
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October 18 Don't be selfish; don't live to make a good impression on others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourself. Don't just think about your own affairs, but be interested in others, too, and in what they are doing.    [Philippians 2:3-4]

   TEAM: Emergency Planning With Like-Minded Companions
Far into my teenage years, my parents always wanted to meet my friends and either encourage or dissuade my continuance of the relationship. The decision was mine but, ultimately, I would find that my parents were correct in their assessments. An Emergency Plan should include working together with a trusted group of people to prepare for any emergency. Personal survival relationships should be based on moral and upright principals and character.

Emergency Planning should include working with trusted members to prepare. For most, this will be a spouse, other family members or close friends. For others, reaching outside their circle of friends/family may be desired. Regardless of who they are, they should be trusted, have good moral character and on the same page as you regarding the level of preparedness. Your life will depend on them and, in a crisis, the real "them" will prove their level of worth. Visit the Related Link for how to find and develop Survival Companionships.
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October 19 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   FOOD: Making a Root Cellar; Refrigeration Without a Refrigerator
Once upon a time, root cellars were the only way people had to preserve their food. It's still a great way to store fruits and vegetables, especially when you need to store more than you have room indoors and without electricity. Take advantage of nature's "ice box". A very basic one requires a shovel, a little elbow grease and a trash can. Visit the Related Link for instructions on different designs.
[Related Link 1]
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October 20 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   PERSONAL CARE: Am I Fit to Survive a Disaster Scenario?
Improving our survival fitness doesn’t mean perfecting our bodies to fitness model standards. It means conditioning our fitness level to enable our bodies to handle the many physical and emotional tasks necessary in an emergency situation. Some basic goals are to improve endurance, strength and flexibility, learn to swim and defend yourself, stay physically and mentally active, eat well, stay hydrated and get a good night's sleep.
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October 21 Yes, be bold and strong! Banish fear and doubt! For remember, the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.    [Joshua 1:9]

   DEFENSE: Surviving Under Martial Law
Martial law is imposed because of the perceptions of persons in authority. They feel a need to gain control of a situation which they feel is out of control. Typically, some common restrictions placed upon the population are Restrictions on Travel and Public Gatherings, Curfew, Control of the Media, Blocking Personal Communications, Business Restrictions, Loss of Freedom of Speech, Weapons Confiscations and Citizen Relocation. Learn how to prepare for, and survive, these conditions and more.
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October 22 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   PERSONAL CARE: Winterizing Toes and Fingers
Despite covering hands and feet during frigid weather, suffering from icy toes and fingers can still happen . . . What's a person to do?
  • Make sure gloves and socks are thoroughly dry before wearing.
    • Dry near a fire or use an electric boot/glove dryer.
    • Place inside your sleeping bag. They'll be warm and dry from your body heat by morning.
  • Wear Thick Soled Shoes and replace the inner sole with wool or acrylic felt/fleece for the most warmth.
  • Wear Sock Liners (thin socks made of wicking material) underneath your insulating socks.
  • Cover your shoes with a windproof material, such as neoprene. Plastic bags are an inexpensive and simple short-term option.
  • Use Foot-Warming Inserts (chemical or battery-operated) insoles or socks.
  • Avoid Tight-fitting shoes that will constrict blood flow; commonly caused by wearing extra thick socks or overtightening shoelaces.
  • Wear mittens (instead of gloves) to trap body heat by keeping your fingers together and reducing evaporative heat loss.
  • Use gloves with adjustable cuffs to keep out snow and cover and insulate the wrist. Adjust for a snug fit.
  • A good compromise between Gloves and Mittens are 3-finger cycling (lobster-claw style) gloves.
  • Use Hand-Warming Inserts in gloves or mittens.
  • Keeping the Radial (wrist) pulse point covered and warm will help keep fingers warm.
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October 23 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   MEDICAL: How to Prevent and Treat Cold-Weather Injuries
Cold weather is no joke. It can lead to severe injury and even death. Use the Related Link to learn how to treat a variety of cold-weather injuries like:
Chilblains - blisters forming on your extremities after the affected tissue has been rewarmed
Trench Foot - similar to Chilblains but focused on the feet and can develop into gangrene
Frostnip - outer layers of tissue are frozen, and will move over the soft, unfrozen tissue underneath
Frostbite - tissue is frozen straight through and requires medical treatment.
Hypothermia - is all about the core body temperature dropping to 95°F and is a medical emergency.
Heart Attacks - Cold weather tends to thicken blood, causing vasoconstriction increasing the risk with exertion.
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October 24 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   TOOLS: Consider Old-School, Non-Computerized Skills and Related Tools and Machinery
Technology changes rapidly and keeping up with it is not, necessarily, a bad thing. However, we've become a throw-away society and new things don't last as long as things used to. Old tools and appliances we still have collecting dust will, probably, last long after today's modern stuff has hit the landfill. "New and improved" is not always better. And, no matter how much technology changes our lives, we should still learn some basic life skills. As the world presses further into technology as its solution to every problem, take a step back and question if that is the best approach.
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October 25 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   COMMUNICATIONS: Silent Communications for Survival or Infiltration
There are situations when not speaking a word means survival and success. Visit the Related Link to start researching how to learn silent Tactical [hand] Communications and creating a communications language unique to your survival team members.
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October 26 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   DEFENSE: Hiding From Thermal Vision
Modern surveillance technology can be scarily effective, and it's getting better all the time. Thermal imaging, also called passive infrared, doesn't need any light to detect you. But, if you know what you're doing, it is possible to evade detection. Adapting techniques to focus on hiding body heat is the key. Visit the Related Link for more information.
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October 27 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   FINANCES: Build an Emergency Fund for Unexpected Expenses
An emergency fund is a stash of money set aside to cover the financial surprises life throws our way. These unexpected events can be stressful and costly. Whether or not you believe in a breakdown (crash) of the financial structure as we now know it, having a separate fund for emergencies (some listed in the Related Link) is a smart financial strategy.
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October 28 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   WATER: Have a Long-Term Water Storage Plan for Emergencies
Water contamination and shortages can be real threats during an environmental emergency. Prepare by building a permanent stockpile supply of water that will meet the needs of you and your family during an emergency. Calculate One Gallon of Water Per Day, Per Person; 32oz for drinking and the remainder for sanitation. Stored Water does have a shelf life. Refresh the drinking water supply every 6 months.
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October 29 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   MEDICAL: Heal Wounds Using Cobwebs or Spider Webs
Spider webs and Cobwebs make for an excellent natural treatment for healing cuts and scrapes! This is a long-forgotten natural remedy for sealing open wounds and accelerating healing. Even modern science has embraced spider webs as a great treatment for scrapes and wounds.
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October 30 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   FOOD: How to Make One of the Hardiest Non-Perishable Survival Foods - Pemmican
Among all of the food preservation methods that are so popular with preppers, there is one little known method that stands out. It is by no means unheard of, but it isn't nearly as popular as it used to be. I'm referring to the process of making pemmican. It's a mixture of tallow (a rendered form of fat), dried meat, and sometimes dried berries, mixed together and cut into bars. A caloric rich food, it can be used as a key component in prepared meals or eaten raw. Depending upon the exact ingredients and method of preparation, the expected shelf life can be anywhere from half a year to 5 years.
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October 31 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   DEFENSE: How to Camouflage to Evade or Hunt (Gray Man Tactic)
Blending in to the surrounding environment is key to evade, or hide from, a potentially harmful situation or bag your next meal in the wilderness. In an emergency situation, the gray man tactic is a way of disappearing into the crowd so you can move unnoticed when disaster strikes. Looking and acting like "a local" can conceal your preparedness by blending in with the crowd before or during an emergency. Visit the Related Link to learn several other techniques to disappear in plain sight.
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November 01 You servants must submit yourselves to your masters and show them complete respect, not only to those who are kind and considerate, but also to those who are harsh.    [1 Peter 2:18]

   FIRE: Heat-Powered (thermoelectric) Fans for Wood Stoves
A thermoelectric (heat-powered) wood stove fan circulates heat from a wood stove top throughout the room without any AC electricity or batteries. Just set the fan on top of the wood stove and let the heat circulation begin.
[Related Link 1]
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November 02 The Lord reached down from above and grabbed me. He pulled me from the deep water. He saved me from my powerful enemies, who hated me. They were too strong for me, so he saved me. They attacked me in my time of trouble, but the Lord was there to support me. He was pleased with me, so He rescued me. He took me to a safe place. The Lord rewarded me for doing what is right. He was good to me because I am innocent.    [2 Samuel 22:17-21]

   PLANNING: Make Notes in a Crisis Journal to Prepare for the Future
Unfortunately, a crisis is the perfect time to learn. Before all is forgotten, write down the cause and details of the event, the things that went well and those that did not. Make a journal (take notes) as things happen during the crisis. Our note taking may improve our future preparations and handling the next crisis.
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November 03 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   SHELTER: Emergency Insulation Materials to Stay Warm or Cool
More often than not, when we think of insulation, we think of keeping things warm. Insulating against heat is just as important. By trapping air between layers of material, the inside temperature is protected from the outside environmental temperature. In an emergency/survival situation, basic shelter is a must but insulating against the summer heat or winter cold enhances the shelter's ability to protect us from nature's elements. In cold temperatures, multiple layers of clothing and stuffing insulation into our lightweight clothing suddenly makes that clothing more cold-weather-resistant. Make sure that materials, for clothing or bedding, are not wet or damp. Visit the Related Link for some materials to consider for insulating shelters, clothing or bedding.
[Related Link 1]
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November 04 I went to the Lord for help, and He listened. He saved me from all that I fear. If you look to Him for help, He will put a smile on your face. You will have no need to be ashamed.    [Psalm 34:4-5]

   HEALTH: Overcoming Fear
One of the worse aliments in the world is fear. Once it grabs our attention, our minds take over to imagine an endless series of hobgoblins, all of them imaginary, not fact-based. It also weakens our defense against those who would try to manipulate or control us. Consider the suggestions in the Related Link to turn fear into power.
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November 05 Praise the Lord. Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever.    [Psalm 106:1]

   TOOLS: Yesterday's Newspaper is Still Worth Plenty Today
For years, newspaper was used as insulation in homes. Shredded and placed in the walls it acted just as the insulation of today. It was even used to wrap water pipes to help keep them from freezing. Part of having a survivalist mindset is visualizing how something made for a specific purpose can be repurposed beyond its former life. What new purposes can you find for Yesterday's Newspaper, magazines, phone books and catalogs?
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November 06 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   FOOD: How to Raise, Dispatch and Butcher Rabbits for Food
The decision to raise rabbits, for me, came down to a few factors. I wanted an animal that would supplement the usual meats in my diet like chicken, beef, and pork. I also wanted an animal that would be easy to take care of, easy to clean, wouldn't cost too much, and one where I would not have a big allergic reaction. I found out later that rabbit meat is very high in protein and very low in fat. If you raise or hunt rabbits for food, you need to know how to kill and butcher one. The tutorial, in the Related Link, will teach the Step-By-Step on how to butcher a rabbit.
[Related Link 1]
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November 07 You live among people who are crooked and evil, but you must not do anything that they can say is wrong. Try to shine as lights among the people of this world.    [Philippians 2:15]

   DEFENSE: Surviving Incarceration or Confinement
Today's social and political environments are not kind. In fact, they are down right threatening to a peaceful existance. It's easy to offend thin-skinned emotions and constantly-moving political agendas. As a result, finding oneself behind bars for any action that someone feels offended by is a real possibility. Developing a mindset to prepare for such an event will be helpful in case the unthinkable happens. Walking into a jail or prison for the first time, no matter who you are or why, is a frightening experience. The mixture of adrenaline, fear, anxiety, and confusion is deafening. After the cell doors slam shut behind you it's time to deal with the situation and begin planning your survival. Consider the suggestions in the Related Link.
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November 08 The Lord doesn't care about the strength of horses or powerful armies. The Lord is pleased only with those who worship Him and trust His love.    [Psalm 147:10-11]

   PLANNING: Strengthen Family Survival Skills
You may have spent a great deal of time preparing for a disaster, learning critical survival skills and stocked up on emergency supplies. The question is not "do we have all right supplies and knowledge" but "could we actually survive this way in real life if circumstances forced us into it"? Put planning into practice. Nothing will assess the grit and endurance of your loved ones, improve teamwork and strengthen the family bond better than leaving behind electronics, cellphones, modern conveniences, electricity, the roof overhead, and your under–appreciated toilet seat.
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November 09 No man will be able to stand against you all the days of your life. I will be with you just as I have been with Moses. I will be faithful to you and will not leave you alone.    [Joshua 1:5]

   FOOD: Make Potato Flakes With 5 Years Shelf Life (without refrigeration)
Dehydrated potato flakes are a highly portable, convenient source of nutrition. They are fairly easy to cook, don't weigh much and keep for a long time without refrigeration. Also, you know what's in them when you make them from scratch and they taste better.
[Related Link 1]
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November 10 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   DEFENSE: 3 Zones of Assessment for Emergency/Survival
Imagine almost any survival situation. After the initial shock of what just happened, what next? First and foremost, when faced with a survival or traumatic situation of any kind, one must calm down. Then assess:
what you have on your person (zone 1) such as a knife, other tools, etc.
what's within your immediate surroundings (zone 2) such as your car, wild edibles, etc.
and what might be accessible within a short walk away (zone 3) like shelter, stream, etc.
Now you have details and are able to make a series of quality and concise decisions about how to effect proactive survival – the only kind of survival there is.
[Related Link 1]
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November 11 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   PLANNING: Prepare an Evacuation Checklist and Plan
Depending on the emergency, you may have only minutes to evacuate. Know what supplies to take. Plan for both on-foot and vehicle evacuation. Keep vehicles in bug-out-readiness. Stay physically fit. Pre-plan backroad routes to avoid civil unrest and traffic backups. Pre-plant survival supplies along determined routes. Take a compass and detailed road map/atlas (even if it's out of date) in case GPS is unavailable. Contact friends/family to relay your details.
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November 12 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   SHELTER: Keep the Heat in Check During a Power Outage or Emergency
Winter and a survival or emergency situation can be particular challenges for staying warm, cooking and resolving freeze-up situations. Having a wood stove and propane heater will help and knowing a few survival heating methods is a good skill to have. Keeping the heat in check at home, blackouts, frozen water pipes, cooking and keeping warm are just some of the problems to deal with. Suggestions in the Related Link may make the cold and power outages a bit more tolerable.
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November 13 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   HEALTH: Cold and Flu [and Pandemic] Preparation and Practices
Whenever a new virus is announced, a bell should go off in our heads to think "this could be the one that gets out of control". Think, for a minute, how often we come in contact with things that others have touched; the list is endless. Unless you continually wear surgical masks and gloves, you WILL be exposed to the germs of someone else who could be infected with any number of nasty communicable germs that could make you mildly sick or worse. Make a habit of these germ protection actions to reduce the chances of getting it, prevent spreading it and treating it.
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November 14 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   COMMUNICATIONS: Expired Cell Phones to the Rescue
Keep an old cell phone in the car and/or Emergency Kit. Even inactive cell phones may be able to call 911. The battery must still be in the phone and charged so have its charger (car and AC) with the phone. A SIM card is not necessary and the phone can be locked. Even phones that have not been initialized for service (no number assigned) can call 911. As long as it can be powered on and can locate a network [tower], it can connect to 911. Be aware that some structure building materials may block radio or cell signals.
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November 15 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   FIRE: Make Fire Bricks From Junk Mail
Don't throw away that outdate newspaper or publications or junk mail. Use them to cook or heat the house. Dump waste products (paper, grass clippings, etc.) into a bucket with holes. When the bucket is full of paper, add water to soak and blend to make a paste (like oatmeal) which can then be molded and thoroughly dried into bricks after squeezing out the excess water.
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November 16 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   TRANSPORTATION: Make a Wood-Burning [Gasifier] Truck
When commercial fuels become unavailable during an emergency, wouldn't it be good to have an alternative source of powered transportation? A Wood Gasifier converts timber or charcoal into wood gas which, after cooling and filtering, can then be used to power an internal combustion engine or for other purposes. Can't Find Fuel? Make Your Own With A Wood Gasifier!
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November 17 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   POWER: Using Wind Power at Home
Taking advantage of alternative energy technologies, like wind, has advanced leaps and bounds over the last 10 years, and even more in the last 2 years. However, we are way far off from the ease of use, Plug and Play Systems that the average homeowner can pick up at the local Walmart but it's not rocket science. There will be an investment of time and money that may benefit in times of public grid power outages and fuel shortages.
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November 18 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   TOOLS: Why Have Non-Power Hand Tools?
If the Grid goes down, or I'm out in the middle of nowhere, my highly advanced electric/battery tools are collectively no more useful than a tool bag filled with boat anchors. In a crisis, electric and fuel may be unavailable for power tools so have tools available that will function in any situation.
[Related Link 1]
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November 19 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   PERSONAL CARE: Toilet Paper Alternatives in the Home or the Great Outdoors
It's a fact of nature that everyone needs to take a dump or two or more a day. Consider alternative sources and methods for doing the deed and cleaning up when the reliable Toilet Paper is not available
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November 20 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   TOOLS: Oil Wooden Tools and Utensils to Preserve Them for a Lifetime
One of the most time-honored ways to protect wood from rot and decay, over time, has always involved oil. Use animal fats, beeswax, linseed oil, mineral oil, tung oil, danish oil, even used motor oil (with cautions for outdoor projects only - does not harden) to preserve wooden hunting tools, hand tools and kitchen utensils. Wood requires a preservative that can harden to prevent water penetration. Use Food-Safe Oils for Wooden Kitchen Utensils. When the tool or utensil is first made or acquired, rub it with oil every day for a week, then once every week for a month, then once every month for a year.
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November 21 Sing unto the Lord with thanksgiving; sing praise upon the harp unto our God: who covers the heaven with clouds, who provides rain for the earth, who makes grass to grow upon the mountains. He gives food to the animals and to the young ravens that chirp.    [Psalm 147:7-9]

   FOOD: Grow a Garden All Year Long With an Indoor Garden
Just because the warm weather takes a vacation doesn’t mean gardening has to stop. Garden indoors. Miniature fruits and vegetables and commercial, or DIY, gardening kits can help make it possible.
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November 22 Let us come before His presence with thanksgiving; let us make a joyful noise unto Him with psalms!    [Psalm 95:2]

   FOOD: Make Your Own Fruit Leather (Roll-Ups)
Remove the seeds from the fruit/vegetables to be used. Mash and grind the fruit/vegetables into a puree and strain/pick out more seeds and unwanted material. The consistancy should be so that it stays in place (not runny) when it's spread out to dry. Spread the puree onto a flat rock or cutting board about 1/8" thick. Leave it in the sun (or dehydrate) to dry (cover with a cloth to prevent bugs) for a few hours until it has a glossy look and texture like soft rubber. Store in a cool, dry place where critters can't get to it. It should have a long shelf life and can be rehydrated to make drinks or used as a fruit additive to foods.
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November 23 Oh, give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love and His kindness go on forever.    [1 Chronicles 16:34]

   MEDICAL: Are Pet Medications Safe for Humans?
Among the many articles regarding "fish antibiotics" being the same thing as antibiotics prescribed for humans, one of them was written by a doctor (who is apparently into prepping), ordered a variety of ‘fish antibiotics’ for his preps – to discover that these antibiotics were the same that he would otherwise prescribe to his patients.
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November 24 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   PLANNING: Living Off-The-Grid - Building a Personal Grid
The longer I live here, the more I learn how to live here longer.
Being on the "grid" usually means receiving electric supplied by a local electrical provider. Today, being labeled as "off grid" can mean a whole bunch of things. No Public Utilities. Oh, no! What's a person to do? Think outside the box. What if . . . ? Here are some things to consider about an alternative "off grid" setup. The longer I live off-grid, the more I learn how to live off-grid longer.
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November 25 A joyful heart is good medicine, but depression drains one's strength.    [Proverbs 17:22]

   DEFENSE: Proper Firearms Cleaning
Like other technical gear you may own, guns need regular maintenance to keep them operating safely and correctly. Firearms are designed to be sturdy and high-performance items, but they still need cleaning to ensure that the components function smoothly and safely. Knowing how to use all of the components of a gun is an important part of firearm safety. You also need to know how to dismantle your firearm and put it back together again.
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November 26 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   TOOLS: Build a Faraday Cage for Protecting Electronics Against EMP and Solar Flare
An Electro-Magnetic Pulse (EMP) could result in the loss of many lives and a nationwide blackout, lasting a year or more. One thing to do, for personal protection, is to understand and apply "Faraday Cage" principals to protect electronics and digital information.
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November 27 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   WATER: Using Sunlight to Sterilize Water
Every adult human being needs about 32 ounces of drinking water each day. It is very important to have pure drinking water, otherwise you can suffer from diarrhea or even worse diseases. This article shows you how to sterilize water at no cost. Use a PET (Polyethylene terephthalate) plastic bottle with water that is not turbid (murky, opaque, cloudy, unclear, muddy, thick, milky, oily).
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November 28 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   WATER: Living Without Running Water
Reaching for the faucet and expecting water to flow out of it is so ingrained in us that, for many, it seems impossible to imagine a life without that luxury. It is possible. A mindset change is always needed when dealing with an emergency or making a lifestyle change to "go against the norm". Try it. Plan one day to live without turning on the faucet, taking a shower/bath, using the dishwasher or flushing the toilet [as usual].
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November 29 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   FINANCES: Long List of Things to Stop Buying and Start Making to Save Money
Stop buying easy-to-make products and start making them on your own. You'll reduce your reliance on external suppliers and have greater control over the quality of the final product. You'll save money, too. Learn to be more self-sufficient.
[Related Link 1]
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November 30 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   WATER: Off-Grid Hot Water Heating Options
Here are some options for off-grid hot water heating with commercial products and used parts and a wood-burning Rocket Stove. NO Electricity or Gas needed.
[Related Link 1]
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December 1 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   Surviving in Cold Weather / Snow is considered to be the most difficult to survive. Hypothermia = the major threat.
1. Dirty clothes may prevent them from breathing & insulating. Keep them clean to stay sanitized & warm.
2. Limit strenuous activities to avoid exhaustion & sweating.
3. Wear clothing loose to breathe. Layer for better insulation.
4. Stay dry. Wear water-resistant clothes. Avoid snow and melting ice.
5. Most body heat is lost through the head. Keep it covered to stay warmer.
6. Avoid frostbite by covering your ears and fingers. Place hands under arm pits or somewhere warm.
7. Shelter: Out of the way of avalanche chutes. On the edge of a clearing. Dig a pit in the ground to avoid freezing winds. If you can't dig, build a framework first, then cover with debris. Allow shelter to breathe.
8. Stay warm. Keep hydrated. Snack on food to keep energy levels and body temperature high.
[Related Link 1]
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December 2 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   The 1-10-1 Rule of Hypothermia is a simple way to remember the first three phases of cold water immersion and the approximate time each phase takes. Hypothermia occurs after exposure to cold, wet or windy conditions. When the body's temperature drops below 95° F (35° C) it become a medical emergency. The brain and body cannot function properly. Left untreated, hypothermia can lead to cardiac arrest (heart stops beating) and death.
Avoid getting wet or sweating during cold weather/water conditions. Both can contribute to hypothermia.
1 minute - (if fallen into cold water) an immediate shock of cold will pass. During that time concentrate to avoid panic (calm down) and get breathing under control.
10 minutes - loss of effective use of fingers, arms and legs for any meaningful movement. Concentrate on self rescue and call out for help.
1 hour - unconsciousness will set in. Delay it by self rescue activities and calling for help.
- After removal from the cold weather/water condition, remove wet clothing, dry the body and wrap in warm, dry blanket. Do not wrap in a "space" (mylar) blanket. Open it near a fire to reflect heat to them.
- Move hypothermic person to a warmer environment or build a fire.
- Feed a hypothermic person high-sugar foods/drinks and get them moving, warm & dry.
[Related Link 1]
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December 3 Lord, you are faithful to those who are faithful. You are good to those who are good. You never do wrong to those who have done no wrong. But You outsmart the wicked, no matter how clever they are. You help those who are humble, but as soon as You see the proud, You humiliate them.    [2 Samuel 22:26-28]

   FOOD: Tree Bark as Survival Food? Yep!
In a survival situation, the nuts, fruits, and leaves of a tree are a more appealing source of nutrition, but if you find yourself in the forest in mid-winter, chances are your pickings will be slim. But tree bark is consistently available regardless of the season. Whether you decide to fry up a few cambium strips in olive oil or grind some papery birch bark into flour, you won't be the first person to try eating tree bark. Generally, the outter bark is not the edible part of the tree but what lies beneath. In addition to food, trees can provide medicinal properties as well. Getting familiar with, and learning how to harvest and prepare, parts of a tree (for food a medicine) could be the difference between life and death.
[Related Link 1]
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December 4 For the Lord your God is living among you. He is a mighty savior. He will take delight in you with gladness. With His love, He will calm all your fears. He will rejoice over you with joyful songs.    [Zephaniah 3:17]

   SHELTER: Building a Debris Hut for Hunting or Survival
Weather continues to be man's #1 survival adversary. If you're not dealing with it, you should be preparing for it. The first of 3 Laws of Survival, it is necessary to stay dry, warm and provide some level of protection from critters. If you do not have a tent or can't find a cave (unoccupied), use what is available in your gear or the environment. Resourcefulness is one of the most important traits of a great hunter or survivalist, especially when it comes to building an outdoor shelter. But when it comes down to it, being sure that the shelter is strong enough is key. Build a shelter and bedding from the elements using natural debris, long grasses, tree branches and leaves. Digging a body-sized Snow Cave in a large snow mound will work when snow is available but when it's not:
Step 1: Clear the ground down to the dirt, larger than the size of your intended shelter, to discourage critters from sneaking in
Step 2: Build the Shelter Frame
Step 3: Build a dry bed frame or padded area to stay off the bear ground which drains body heat
Step 4: Create a roof with a tarp, survival blanket or leafy branches
[Related Link 1]
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December 5 But the day of the Lord will come like a thief. The heavens will disappear with a roar; the elements will be destroyed by fire, and the earth and everything done in it will be laid bare. Since everything will be destroyed in this way, what kind of people ought you to be? You ought to live holy and godly lives.    [2 Peter 3:10-11]

   FIRE: Fire From Ice
- Find the clearest piece of ice about the size of a softball
- Chip away at it until it's shaped into a disk; thick in the middle and narrow at the edges
- Polish the lens with the heat from your hands to give it a smooth surface
- Angle your ice lens towards the sun and focus the light onto your fire tinder to ignite
[Related Link 1]
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December 6 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   TOOLS: What is Paracord and How Useful is it?
Paracord is nylon cordage (rope) made up of multiple strands that can be used for climbing or broken down to its smallest strand to sew on a button or suture a wound. There are plenty of creative uses for it. Check out our list and learn a ton of paracord hacks! If you are wondering how paracord can help you, you're in the right place to start learning its many benefits for everyday or survival applications.
[Related Link 1]
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December 7 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   DEFENSE: Low-Tech Detection Using Telltales
About 25 minutes into the James Bond, 007 movie "Dr. No", 007 (Sean Connery) arrives at his hotel and gets his vodka martini (shaken, not stirred). He then shakes some powder onto his briefcase latches and pulls a hair from his head and places it across the crack between the room door and door jamb. Why?; to detect if someone opens the door or his briefcase after he leaves. In the spy/detective business, these are called "tells". It's a low-tech evidence indicator left behind after something has happened. These techniques can be used to alert of unwanted access/activity when direct observation isn't possible.
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December 8 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]


   FINANCES: Cashless Society Pros & Cons
The concept of "cashless" is either a heated debate, the wave of the future, or a term you've never heard of. Governments have a love-hate relationship with cash because it is anonymous money which may represent untaxed earnings. This helps explain why the fix is in to outlaw cash. But anything electronic can be monitored so anonimity is not likely. Consider investing in the Barter System and hand-held precious metals.
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December 9 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   TOOLS: Uses for Sticky Pine Sap for Wilderness Survival and Self-Reliance
Our ancestors walked woodlands learning to use the resources invisible to the modern eye. Learning to use natural resources can help get out of many "sticky" situations in the woods. Pine trees, for example, produce a sticky resource with many benefits such as first aid, glue, making a torch and starting a fire.
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December 10 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   WATER: Is Your Drinking Water Safe?
Should we assume the water coming out of our faucets is safe to drink? No! Here are ways to test (for lead and other metals, pesticides, bacteria, parasites, inorganics, Volatile Organic Compounds, etc.) and decontaminate (filtering, treating, distilling, etc.) to improve the quality of your drinking water, with information about countertop home distillers.
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December 11 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   TOOLS: Boron (Boric Acid / Borax) – Health, Household, Garden and Pest Control Uses and Benefits
Boron is a trace mineral, common supplement and nutrient that is neglected by many. Found naturally in several plants, it offers several benefits to plants and human health. Do lots of research before using Boron products.
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December 12 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   SKILLS: Weather Forecasting Without Gadgets
If you’re relying too much on modern technology to tell the weather, it’s time to go back to basics. Want to know how to do a weather forecast without gadgets? Learn to "read" the clouds, sky, moon, wind, humidity, air, dew, plants, animals and Insects and more.
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December 13 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   POWER: Don't throw away dead car batteries - Recondition them
Car batteries are too expensive to just throw them away when they lose their full power. They can be restored to their former glory or repurposed for backup or other DC Power uses with Baking Soda, Epsom Salt and Distilled Water.
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December 14 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   HEALTH: Colloidal Silver: Is it Quackery or a Cure?
Many tout Colloidal Silver as a panacea for all human ailments, from the common cold to staph, aids and cancer. But the medical community, FDA and many others view this liquid as quackery and potentially harmful to internal organs. Made from real silver at home or bought commercially, is it safe to use?
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December 15 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   TOOLS: Off-Grid Winch: Incredible Power from 2 Logs and Rope
The power of simple machines, smartly employed, are capable of moving most anything. Daddy didn’t possess superhuman strength, he simply understood the power of simple machines.
"Give me a lever long enough and a fulcrum on which to place it, and I shall move the world." - Archimedes
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December 16 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   SKILLS: Daily Habits of a Prepared Person
The way prepared people spend their time before an emergency is the real key to survival. It's something no amount of money can buy. It’s the small daily habits that become an innate part of our everyday lives – habits that may not be noticeable to someone outside the lifestyle. Skills become more than just knowledge, they become instinctual. Seek happiness but live everyday as if it is "the day before".
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December 17 Train a child in the way that he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it.    [Proverbs 22:6]

   DEFENSE: Preparing Our Children to Face Tough Times With Courage and Confidence:
We want to protect them from harm and the cruelties of life. But are we doing them a disservice? Teaching our children good moral values, and helping them learn how to prepare for emergencies, are good things to cope with life and know they can help themselves, the family and community; beliefs and skills they will need to face the realities of life for the rest of their lives.
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December 18 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   CLOTHING: Wilderness/Survival SnowShoes
The concept of "snowshoes" is to make your footprint larger to disperse your body weight over a larger area so you don't sink into the snow. Visit the related link to learn how to make them in the wild or at home.
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December 19 Trust in the Lord and do good. Then you will live safely in the land and prosper. Take delight in the Lord, and He will give you your heart's desires.    [Psalm 37:3-4]

   PLANNING: Survival Caches for Hiding Remote Emergency Supplies
A survival cache is a secret hiding place for a valuable, emergency stockpile of supplies that are needed for you to survive when there are no other options. The keys to successfully hiding a survival cache are to hide it where no one else will find it but you and stored so the contents will be preserved. Protect it then hide it.
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December 20 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   TOOLS: Survival Uses for Charcoal
Before you dump the coals from your fire or grill, read these tips that might save your life, or improve your health, in an emergency situation. Learn how to make charcoal and activated charcoal. Charcoal is the black remains of burned hard wood, not the white ash.
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December 21 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   TOOLS: The Many Surprising Uses for Household Vinegar
People have been using vinegar for thousands of years for everything from food preservation to sanitation! There have even been traces of vinegar found in ancient Egyptian tombs dating as far back as 3000 B.C.! Discover how this one simple household staple is worth more than gold. Learn its many uses and how to make your own.
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December 22 [CLICK HERE for today's verse]

   HEALTH: Top Diseases of Concern After a Disaster
Tuberculosis (TB), Typhoid, Cholera, Dysentary and Respiratory Infections (colds, flu, virus) - When the infrastructure is compromised, understanding and preparing for these diseases will help you survive. Preventive measures are good personal hygiene, clean water, clean food preparation, good diet, Vitamin D and good ventilation in gathering areas.
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December 23 And she will have a Son, and you shall name him Jesus (meaning 'Savior'), for He will save His people from their sins.    [Matthew 1:21]

   TOOLS: Recycle and Melt Aluminum to Mold into any New Object
It takes about 45 empty soda/beer cans to melt down to about one pound of molten aluminum which can be formed to make awesome new objects in just a few steps using a [melting] Foundry and Molds. This technique is a great way to recycle old aluminum cans. Instructions for making a DIY Foundry and Molds are included at the Related Link.
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December 24 Listen! The virgin shall conceive a child! She shall give birth to a Son, and He shall be called "Emmanuel" (meaning "God is with us").    [Matthew 1:23]

   PERSONAL CARE: DIY Natural Household Cleaners & Deodorizers
Household cleaner, oven cleaner, drain cleaner, laundry booster - make your own and forget the toxic, store-bought, costly commercial products. Nix the chemicals when you clean your home. These days, nontoxic cleaning products seem to be all the rage. While it may be better for the environment and our health, it's not always so ideal for the wallet. Luckily, there are tons of ways to clean your home using organic products, without having to break the bank.
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December 25 Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. Then the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger." And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: "Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!"    [Luke 2:8-14]

   PLANNING: The Ultimate Preparation
The Ultimate Level of Preparation has Little to do with Stuff or Detailed Plans but, rather, Heart and Mind and Soul. A prudent person foresees danger and takes precautions. The simpleton goes blindly on and suffers the consequences. Proverbs 22:3

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December 26 And Christ became a human being and lived here on earth among us and was full of loving forgiveness and truth. And some of us have seen His glory; the glory of the only Son of the Heavenly Father!    [John 1:14]

   SHELTER: The Nomadic Lifestyle - Why Living in an RV is Better Than Living in a House
Thousands of people may vacation in a Recreational Vehicle but many have permanently taken to living on the road in an RV. Read about the pros and cons, Mail Processing Services for People on the Move and one couple's challenges and adventures of casting off "the norm" for an RV lifestyle that teaches to value experiences over belongings, and relationships over work.
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December 27 Thank God for His Son (Jesus); His Gift too wonderful for words.    [2 Corinthians 9:15]

   PERSONAL CARE: Off-Grid Shower
It never hurts to be prepared with a good shower alternative when clean running water may not be available when you might need one. Feeling clean is a boost to morale. Here are some shower options to consider.
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December 28 Sing to the Lord, all the earth. Proclaim good tidings of His salvation from day to day. Declare His glory among the nations, His wonders among all the peoples. For great is the Lord and greatly to be praised.    [1 Chronicles 16:23-25]

   DEFENSE: How to Survive the Urban Jungle
Urban environments present their own unique challenges when it comes to survival. But if you arm yourself with these "street survival skills," you’ll be equipped with the knowledge you need to survive. First piece of advice; move to the country. But if you're not going to do that . . .
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December 29 Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer. I tell you, the devil will put some of you in prison to test you, and you will suffer persecution for ten days. Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you life as your victor's crown.    [Revelation 2:10]

   PLANNING: How to Prep When Your Spouse or Family is Against It
Most preppers are familiar with the sideways looks and awkward situations that arise when they tell others of their emergency plans and readiness. But, when that skepticism comes from within the immediate family, things become much more complex. Do you feel like Noah (in the Bible) when trying to talk with them about prepping? What do you do now?
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December 30 Here is my final conclusion: fear God and obey His commandments, for this is the entire duty of man. For God will judge us for everything we do, including every hidden thing, good or bad.    [Ecclesiastes 12:13-14]

   FOOD: Benefits of Adding a Black Powder Rifle and/or Revolver to Your Arsenal
Black Powder Rifles and Cap-and-Ball Revolvers provide a simple solution to sold-out ammunition. While some BP firearms can be converted to use commercial ammo, our ammunition supply is limited only by how much metal we can acquire to melt down for the bullets. When combined with the knowledge of Making Black Gunpowder from scratch, we don't need to rely on modern firearms.
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December 31 To the one who is victorious and does my will to the end, I will give authority over the nations.    [Revelation 2:26]

   SHELTER: Living On Nothing: What the Homeless Can Teach Us When Life Throws a Curve Ball
Most of us wouldn't CHOOSE to be homeless. But we should never say "never"; life has a way of throwing us curve balls. If you do find yourself on the run to avoid persecution or capture or homeless due to natural disaster, financial ruin and lack of friends/family ties, this information will be crucial to cope (and survive) despite setbacks.
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