Scripture to Read: 1 Peter 3:15–16
As God has told us that persecution will come, He also sets out for us the foundation for our lives and what we must do each day. In 1 Peter 3:15–16, God tells us that we must sanctify Christ as Lord in our hearts, which means we must choose to worship Christ as Lord in all areas of our lives. Christ is Lord, but we must submit to His leadership and walk in the holiness He has given us through His Spirit in us. As we walk in Christ's holiness, we are also always to be prepared if someone asks about our hope as a believer and be ready to explain to them who Christ is and who we are in Christ. Sharing about Christ and what He's done for us, as well as what He's currently doing in us, is so important. People all around us need to know who Christ is, what He's done, and the change He can make in their lives. As we share Christ and His Truth, we must always communicate with a gentle and respectful attitude so that we do not push anyone away from Christ. Going hand-in-hand with being gentle and respectful, God also makes it clear, in 1 Peter 3:16, that our lives must be so far above reproach that our conscience is clear. When our lives are above reproach, if anyone speaks against us, they will be ashamed when they recognize what a good life we live because we belong to Christ. This is just another way of being a good witness for our Lord.
Challenge & Application
1. How are you currently choosing to worship Christ as Lord in all areas of your life?
2. Pray Colossians 4:3–4, for God to open up an opportunity for you to share the gospel this week.
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!