The grid also could be brought down for a while by natural disasters such as floods, fires, severe storms or by other forms of human attacks. Regardless of the potential effects of unexpected catastrophes, it is wise to be prepared for emergencies.

As Proverbs 22:3 and 27:12 state: “A prudent person foresees danger and takes precautions. The simpleton goes blindly on and suffers the consequences” (New Living Translation). We are also to be doing what we can to provide for our families (1 Timothy 5:8). So it’s important that we give due attention to preparation.

In a Sept. 3, 2015 article titled “Survival in the Age of EMP,” Norman Rogers at the American Thinker writes: “The consequences of grid and computer failure could be horrible, especially because we are totally unprepared . . . Without electricity for months or years, civilization collapses. The food chain cannot operate without electricity to power the factories. Transportation, assuming cars and trucks still run, cannot operate without fuel. Without refineries and pipelines operating, there will be no fuel. If it is winter, people will be burning their furniture for heat. People dependent on drugs to stay alive will die because the factories that make drugs will be idle.

“This new war scenario gives another reason for individuals to store food . . . Mormons have long been encouraged to store a year’s supply of food. The California Earthquake Authority suggests having a 2-week supply of food. The State of Florida suggests having a 3-day supply of food.

“Grocery stores don’t store large quantities of food and are often cleaned out in hours when a hurricane threatens. The long food chain has to operate to process and distribute food. That food chain depends on equipment, transportation, the financial system, electricity, etc. When there is an earthquake or hurricane, massive help is quickly mobilized from outside the affected area, so food storage needs are small. [This might not be so easy if an EMP-affected area is huge, as it likely would be.] . . .

“How many people or organizations have thought about how one would buy (or sell) things when credit card terminals, bank computers, and ATMs don’t work? . . . Since the government is not doing anything about an EMP, it may be a good idea for individuals and organizations to make their own plans for emergency food supplies.”

Of course, this must be in balance with all of life’s priorities. The Bible warns us that if we are just trying to save our physical lives, we will not ultimately make it through (Luke 17:33). We should prepare as we are able for societal disruptions but not go to extremes. The Bible encourages us to seek first God’s Kingdom and righteousness and He will take care of our daily needs (Matthew 6:33)—but a part of righteousness is prudent preparation.