Bible Reading: Numbers 25; Psalm 68; Isaiah 15; 1 Peter 3
But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear: (1 Peter 3:15)
Peter's first epistle is written to believers that are suffering persecution for their faith in Jesus Christ. He tells them that this is the stage that is set for them to demonstrate patience, love and faithfulness. He does not encourage them to excuse themselves from the mission of Jesus, but admonishes them to let their circumstances be a magnifying glass for the gospel.
But and if ye suffer for righteousness' sake, happy are ye: and be not afraid of their terror, neither be troubled; (1 Peter 3:14)
Suffering because you live a righteous life is a blessed state to be in. He echoes the words of Jesus as he encourages us.
Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you. (Matthew 5:10-12)
No matter what circumstances you find yourself in, you must always be ready to give an answer for the hope that is in you. As a believer you will face life differently than other people. You will have joy and peace in the midst of trials and sufferings. You will walk in love and will not be looking out for number one. You will not engage in gossip or slander but will speak things that edify. You will be a humble, Spirit-filled person and this will cause others to see a difference in you.
When they see this difference you have the opportunity to point to the Savior and give him all the credit! When someone sees you smile and be polite to a rude co-worker and they ask you how you do it you now have the perfect opportunity to preach the gospel to them. Oh, I don't mean jump up on an apple crate with a bull-horn and shout, "Repent or burn!" I mean you can humbly share how you came to know Jesus Christ and what he has done in your life.
Are you ready? Are you prepared with your testimony? Do you know how to tell someone the gospel of Jesus Christ? If you are not, the Bible commands you to get that way!
What about the way you live. Do you complain right along with the rest of the disgruntled employees? Do you show up to work grouchy and stay that way? If you do, you look just like everyone else. You have not sanctified the Lord God in your heart. You need to live different so they will ask.
In Christ,
Rody
