In your hearts, set apart 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. —1 Peter 3:15.
Peter, the great apostle, is calling us to be ready and able to tell folks about the hope that Jesus has brought into our lives. This must be an “always readiness” because we don’t know when the opportunity to share our hope may come our way. Two things are incredibly important as we share this hope:
- Our Credibility: Is Jesus really Lord of our hearts or not? The reality of our passion, or lack of passion, for Jesus’ lordship in our lives will shine through in our daily lives, as well — the way we treat people, the language we use, our hope for the future, and our kindness to those who need grace.
- Our Character: Do we show gentleness and respect in the way we approach and treat others, especially those who question us? The goal is not to win arguments but to win hearts to the grace and goodness of God through our daily lives.