“But 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, yet with gentleness and reverence;” - 1 Peter 3:15 (NASB)
Running this scripture in my head I think of so many situations, l have experienced in regard to “being ready to make a defense” which fluctuated from fear of retribution toward saying anything once questioned; sweaty palms and loss of words, because I felt anxiety and didn’t feel I would be able to effectively reflect the hope of God as I was fumbling through in my emotional moment.
As I mature and appreciate what Christ did for all humanity, who He is to me personally, and how much He has changed my life I can testify that I am a changed person because He is Lord of my heart. Life hasn’t been easy, but God says, “Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28 NIV)
Knowing He will help me with my words and offer opportunities to share His gift of salvation with others, along with how He has impacted my life, lifts the burden of fear and anxiety to give an account of the hope that is in me.
Heavenly Father, thank You for blessing us when we suffer for the sake of righteousness. You tell us not to fear their intimidation and not to be troubled. Thank You for being the hope we share with others so that they may know You as the Lord of their heart.
This devotion by author, Terrie Miles, is exclusively and solely shared with permission to New Beginnings Church. Any unauthorized printed reproduction, sharing or use of this material is prohibited.
