Always be prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you. – 1 Peter 3:15
Each of us has a story! If you have come to know Jesus as your Savior, you have that story – it may not be dramatic, but it is exciting because it changed your life. The world’s view of life may be cynical, one that feels hopeless, or one where adversity can cause despair or anger. But your life is different, and you can be enthusiastic in giving the reasons why that is so.
Commentator Warren W. Wiersbe suggests that the Apostle Peter was telling the persecuted believers, and you, to be optimistic and positive… to prepare for the best: “We can decide to endure life and make it a burden, escape life as though we were running from a battle, or enjoy life because we know God is in control.” Those faithful to Him will deliberately decide to love life and make the most of every situation because they see how the Lord answers their prayers and gives strength to face life’s problems. They see His goodness and sense His nearness to them. Wiersbe said Peter presents the spiritual principle that “The fear of the Lord conquers every other fear.”
Be different from the world. “Have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind. Do not repay evil for evil… but on the contrary, bless… Even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you will be blessed. Have no fear of [those who do evil], nor be troubled, but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy” (1 Peter 3:8-15). Be strong in your faith. Then pray for all those who still do not know the Savior. Especially pray for those who govern this nation.
Today’s Verse: 1 Peter 3:15
but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect,
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Recommended for further reading: Psalm 34:1-15
I will bless the Lord at all times;
his praise shall continually be in my mouth.
2 My soul makes its boast in the Lord;
let the humble hear and be glad.
3 Oh, magnify the Lord with me,
and let us exalt his name together!
4 I sought the Lord, and he answered me
and delivered me from all my fears.
5 Those who look to him are radiant,
and their faces shall never be ashamed.
6 This poor man cried, and the Lord heard him
and saved him out of all his troubles.
7 The angel of the Lord encamps
around those who fear him, and delivers them.
8 Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good!
Blessed is the man who takes refuge in him!
9 Oh, fear the Lord, you his saints,
for those who fear him have no lack!
10 The young lions suffer want and hunger;
but those who seek the Lord lack no good thing.
11 Come, O children, listen to me;
I will teach you the fear of the Lord.
12 What man is there who desires life
and loves many days, that he may see good?
13 Keep your tongue from evil
and your lips from speaking deceit.
14 Turn away from evil and do good;
seek peace and pursue it.
15 The eyes of the Lord are toward the righteous
and his ears toward their cry.
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
