Always Be Ready
09/12/2025
“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.”
— 1 Peter 3:15 (NIV)
Peter writes to believers scattered in difficult times, reminding them that their lives should point to Christ. Notice where he begins: “in your hearts revere Christ as Lord.” Before we can speak outwardly, Jesus must be settled inwardly as Lord over every part of our lives. Only then can our words carry the weight of authenticity.
Being “prepared to give an answer” doesn’t mean we need a seminary degree or perfect arguments. It means being ready to share our story, the hope that Jesus has brought us, when the opportunity arises. Imagine a co-worker asking why you remain calm when everyone else is stressed, or a neighbor curious about why you serve at church or help flood victims. In those moments, your life has raised a question, and your words can provide an answer.
But Peter adds an important qualifier: “with gentleness and respect.” Too often, Christians may be quick to defend their faith with harshness or superiority. Yet true witness reflects the heart of Jesus, firm in truth, but tender in love. Think of it like this: the Gospel is best received when it is wrapped in grace.
A personal story makes this come alive. A man once shared how he came to Christ not because of a preacher’s sermon, but because of a friend who listened, cared, and patiently answered his questions without judgment. That friend’s gentleness made space for the Spirit to move.
Action steps to help on your journey:
Take a moment today to write down your testimony in three parts: your life before Christ, how you came to Him, and how your life has changed.
Pray for one person you know who doesn’t yet follow Jesus. Ask God for an opportunity to share your hope with them.
Practice responding to faith questions with humility, avoiding arguments and focusing on Jesus.
Today’s Challenge:
Share one simple sentence of hope with someone today, something as small as “I’ve found peace in Jesus” or “God has been faithful to me.” Let your light shine naturally.
Prayer:
Lord, help me to set You apart in my heart as Lord over everything. Give me courage to speak when opportunities arise, and help me to do it with gentleness and respect. May my words point to Your hope, and may my life back up the testimony of my lips. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Pastor Jeff
#LoveGod #LovePeople #FindFreedom #FindYourDesign
“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.”
— 1 Peter 3:15 (NIV)
Peter writes to believers scattered in difficult times, reminding them that their lives should point to Christ. Notice where he begins: “in your hearts revere Christ as Lord.” Before we can speak outwardly, Jesus must be settled inwardly as Lord over every part of our lives. Only then can our words carry the weight of authenticity.
Being “prepared to give an answer” doesn’t mean we need a seminary degree or perfect arguments. It means being ready to share our story, the hope that Jesus has brought us, when the opportunity arises. Imagine a co-worker asking why you remain calm when everyone else is stressed, or a neighbor curious about why you serve at church or help flood victims. In those moments, your life has raised a question, and your words can provide an answer.
But Peter adds an important qualifier: “with gentleness and respect.” Too often, Christians may be quick to defend their faith with harshness or superiority. Yet true witness reflects the heart of Jesus, firm in truth, but tender in love. Think of it like this: the Gospel is best received when it is wrapped in grace.
A personal story makes this come alive. A man once shared how he came to Christ not because of a preacher’s sermon, but because of a friend who listened, cared, and patiently answered his questions without judgment. That friend’s gentleness made space for the Spirit to move.
Action steps to help on your journey:
Take a moment today to write down your testimony in three parts: your life before Christ, how you came to Him, and how your life has changed.
Pray for one person you know who doesn’t yet follow Jesus. Ask God for an opportunity to share your hope with them.
Practice responding to faith questions with humility, avoiding arguments and focusing on Jesus.
Today’s Challenge:
Share one simple sentence of hope with someone today, something as small as “I’ve found peace in Jesus” or “God has been faithful to me.” Let your light shine naturally.
Prayer:
Lord, help me to set You apart in my heart as Lord over everything. Give me courage to speak when opportunities arise, and help me to do it with gentleness and respect. May my words point to Your hope, and may my life back up the testimony of my lips. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Pastor Jeff
#LoveGod #LovePeople #FindFreedom #FindYourDesign
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