To some extent preparation will have an individual flavor for each person or family.   But there are certain basics that must not be taken into consideration.    When thinking of priorities, we must concentration on basic human needs and core essentials first. 

The Holy Scriptures state, "And having food and rainment (clothing and shelter) let us be therewith content ...." 
I Timothy 6:8 

But do not forget what Job said,  "...I esteem Thy Word more than my necessary food ...."   God, His Word, and his guidance and protection is the first consideration.   Are you under the protection of God?   " God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble."  Psalm 46:1 

In my opinion, the order of priorities is as follows: 

1.   God and our relationship to Him. 

2.   Safety and security in our dwelling - find a safe area of the country in which to live.   Unless God wants you to live in a more dangerous area.  Remember, the apostle Paul went over the wall in a basket (Acts 9:25) and David pretended insanity to preserve their physical lifes.   Do not be presumptious about staying in an insecure area with a misguided idea of service to God.   While this may at times be the will of God, there are many times when it is not.  "He that runs away, lives to fight another day."  Or "discretion is the better part of valor!"  Joel Skousen has considerable knowledge regarding the issues of security and safety in housing and areas of country. 

3.   Water is an immediate essential.   See the article, "Why Water?" 

4.   Food and foodstorage are next.    See the article, "Why store food?"  Food is the investment and insurance that you can eat.   A good food storage plan can be both an investment and an insurance plan. 

5.   Friends and family bonds are also a very important priority.   We will always need others.   Unfortunately, at this point most churches and church people have not taken seriously the matter of self-reliance. The biblical priority is not independence, but true inter-dependence.   We are all dependent to some degree on other persons.   This is not abnormal, but is a part of the social package that God designed for us.    Our goal should not be total independence or total dependence, but effective inter-dependence.  As we mature we recognize that life is always a give and take, a receiving and giving. 

6.   Recreation is important, but not all important.   Does your recreation re-create?   Healthy social games and entertainment are valuable. 

FoodStorage? Why?  What?  When     

Where?  How?               

Grain Grinders  FoodProducts  Water