Sunday, August 20, 2017

The Reason for the Hope Within Us

Often Christians are asked what makes them seem so different from everyone else they observe around them.  The radiant joy and astounding peace of Christians makes unbelievers curious.  They wonder why they don’t share the same disposition, and how the Christian has attained it.  “Maybe that Christian has the ideal job, designer clothes and a luxury car, and that gives them their happiness,” muses the unbeliever.  However, this is never the case.  The Christian finds his/her joy and peace resting in the Savior’s Arms. This kind of joy cannot be bought, sold, or traded, and is only attained by knowing Him.  We know these simple truths, but how can we share them with others?  The answer: live a life filled with His joy, peace, and love.  You see, when we live like this it attracts attention because it is not what the world is used to seeing.  People notice our joy and peace, and want to know what sets us apart.  A quiet Christian life attracts more attention than standing on a street corner yelling how much people need Jesus.  Model it for them.  You will be the only Bible some people will ever read.  Pray for opportunities to witness to those around you who are curious where you find your strength.  In a society that promotes love and tolerance everywhere you turn, the most loving thing you can do for a person is point them toward Jesus.

“But 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 NIV

“Make it your ambition to lead a quiet life, to mind your own business and to work with your hands, just as we told you, so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders and so that you will not be dependent on anybody.” -1 Thessalonians 4:12 NIV (emphasis added).

We will be asked as Christians to explain our reason for hope - it’s part of our job description!  But as Peter says, do it with gentleness and respect, and you cannot possibly go wrong.

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