1 Peter 3:15 – “…sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, but with gentleness and respect…”
In yesterday’s devotional, we were challenged to examine our faith regarding getting others to Jesus. Do we believe that if we can remove barriers to Jesus, Jesus will act and bring healing? Is the love of Christ ruling in our hearts to really care?
Today’s Bible verse from Peter is in the context of what a Christian’s overall attitude and spirit should exude. To set apart Christ as the leader of our hearts each morning is to be humble, compassionate, sympathetic, agreeable, honest, blessing others even in the face of insult (1 Pet. 3:8-12). When we are consistently seeking Christ’s help to live in this manner, Peter says we need to be ready to defend the faith because people are going to be asking.
When you look at the characteristics that the Apostle Peter puts forth in 1 Peter 3, do you see your general attitude and spirit as such that you are removing barriers to others coming to Christ through you? Are you ready to make a defense of your hope in Christ if someone asks?
If you have put your hope in Christ, I want to suggest three ways for you to be prepared to defend the faith with gentleness and respect. Be prepared to share a difference Christ has made in you that you know most people can relate to. Be prepared to share a testimony about the power of prayer and then offer to pray for the person before leaving the conversation. Be prepared to say you don’t know how to answer a question, but that you’d be happy to seek out answers and invite them to sit with you at church one Sunday.
Heavenly Father, my Lord Jesus Christ, I thank you for all the ways you’re at work in my life to help me reflect your character. Give me opportunity, wisdom, faith, and boldness to witness to those around me who need to know your saving grace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.