Verse of the Day - 1 Peter 3:15

But make sure in your hearts that Christ is Lord. Always be ready to give an answer to anyone who asks you about the hope you have. Be ready to give the reason for it. But do it gently and with respect.
~ 1 Peter 3:15 (NIrV)

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How sure are you of who Jesus is? Are you really convinced that He is the King of Kings and Lord of Lords? Do you really believe that He sits at the right hand of the God of the universe, with all authority and powers under Him? Is that your Jesus, or something less?

So many in Peter's day were facing persecution for their faith in Christ. His advice to them was simple:

~ Do good.
~ Don't fear.
~ Make sure you're solid about who Jesus really is, both in the universe and in your heart.
~ Speak the truth about Him when asked.
(p.s. did I mention 'do good'? :-)

Item 3 is what really struck me today. Sometimes I wonder if we've shrunk our image of Jesus down to a Christmas creche and a crucifix. Things we look at and hold in our hand, manageable and small. As if we are bigger than He. If that be true, the fact is that we are small and our thinking is smaller still.

Jesus is Maker and Master of this universe! If we are believers in Him, we must come to fully grasp this truth. Peter said, You've gotta get this in your head and in your heart, people! If you're not convinced of His Lordship in this world, you'll be trampled by the world. Trampled by your own fear and doubt. Trampled by complacency. Trampled by lies. Get up, will ya? Stand tall, and walk in confidence in Who you trust and obey! He's the Alpha and Omega, for heaven's sake!

Once we are clear on this issue, we have confidence to open our mouths and let people know why we hope the way we do. Yet, as feisty as Peter was, he made it very clear that we weren't to be militant in our defense of the Lord. "Do it gently and with respect." People don't hear what you say when you yell; they just hear the yelling. People turn you off when you badger or become disrespectful. With your passion for the Lord, don't let pride or prejudice get you on a pedestal that will topple.

Be kind and considerate, confident of your Lord and your position in Him. And make the most of every opportunity when people wonder why you live the way you do.

Love,
Joelene