27 September 2019 -1 Peter 3:15-16 (NIV)
Scripture
15 But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, 16 keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander.
Reflection
What a timely encouragement and reminder that we should always be ready to explain our faith. We don’t have to be expert apologists nor do we have to be experts in what other religions teach; we simply need to know what we believe as Christians and be able to explain it to those who ask us about our faith. Of course, this is going to require something from us, to spend the time to understand the basic principles of our faith to the level we are comfortable talking to others on this same subject. Do you know what you believe? Do you know why you believe? If you are not sure there are many great resources here are two classics by Paul Little, Know What You Believe and Know Why You Believe.
Thoughts for the day
- What does this passage tell you about God or Jesus?
- What does this passage tell you about humanity?
- What do you feel God is telling you through this passage?
- How can you apply this message in an area of your life that needs transformation?
- Is there anyone you think should hear or will benefit from this message? Go and tell them.
Prayer
Pray the Lord’s Prayer:
“OUR FATHER IN HEAVEN, HALLOWED BE YOUR NAME, YOUR KINGDOM COME, YOUR WILL BE DONE, ON EARTH AS IT IS IN HEAVEN. GIVE US TODAY OUR DAILY BREAD. AND FORGIVE US OUR DEBTS, AS WE ALSO HAVE FORGIVEN OUR DEBTORS. AND LEAD US NOT INTO TEMPTATION, BUT DELIVER US FROM THE EVIL ONE.