"Constant Preparation"

By Zach Wood

1 Peter 3:15

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.

 

 

This past week, during youth group, we went over this passage of Scripture as we were studying the youth group lesson and I was so moved by the message of this passage.  Peter gives an outstanding statement when he says for us to set apart Christ as Lord in our hearts.  When we are in conversations with others, Christ cannot be simply just someone who is a part of our lives.  Jesus Christ is not just another friend we have met or talk to once in a while.  I feel that many times we treat our relationship with Christ in this manner.  He becomes just another important part of our lives, but not priority.  I am so guilty of this problem and I will be the first to admit it.  Christ is not always priority in my life and, therefore, I constantly struggle with having an answer for people when they ask me deep Biblical questions.  God probes my heart saying, "Zach, you are not studying my Word enough.  You need to really know Who I Am."  

 

Have any of you felt that prodding in your heart?  I am sure you have!  All of us have opportunities each day to share the love of God and He wants us to be prepared to give answers for why we are professing Him as Lord and Savior.  I like to think of people who compete for the Olympics or other big event sports.  They don't just train a few weeks before the event, they go through rigorous training that lasts sometimes all year round.  They have to physically be prepared.  Otherwise, they will not be in shape or fully prepared for the competition.  In the same way, as followers of Christ, we are to be people of constant preparation so that we may successfully share our testimonies and lives of faith with those who do not know Christ.  

 

  Let us not forget what Peter says in the last part of verse 15, "But do this with gentleness and respect."  Do you know anyone who gives answers in response to other's faith questions in a pushy way?  That is a guaranteed turn off to people who are looking for love and compassion.  We must remember that not everyone will be willing to listen and accept what we have to offer.  But as long as we are being faithful and doing the work God has called us to do, we may simply plant a seed and do nothing more.  And that's okay!  We just need to remember to keep Christ set apart as Lord in our hearts.  He needs to be the King of our hearts and reign over our lives.  If we are in constant preparation with His Word through study, meditation and prayer, we will become stronger and more confident in sharing our faith with others.