Think about how much is recorded about Moses and his preparations to lead the people out of captivity. Much more is written about the Israelites going to the Promised Land than their arrival. What about Noah and his preparation for the flood, or think about how much more is written about God preparing Jonah's heart for preaching in Ninevah verses how much is recorded about his actual ministry work. In sports, much more time is spent preparing than playing. Much more time is spent in preparing to launch a space shuttle than the actual launch or even in the entire trip.
Much more time is spent preparing for a wedding than the ceremony itself.
How closely I walk with God often depends upon how I prepare to walk with God. If I am haphazard in my time with God and perhaps days go by without spending time with God, I am aware of my lack of preparation. The best way to prepare to serve the Lord is to be served by the Lord. Let me explain. My oldest daughter, Jennifer, is in her second year of college.