DOES YOUR ANSWER OPEN A DOOR?

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, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander. 

I Peter 3:15-16

Up against the fear of suffering for doing what is right Peter tells us to set apart Christ as Lord. That means trusting him with the outcome of our faith. If you chose to act in accordance with the love of Christ, you will find yourself on a different path than those around you. Some people will be really bothered by that. Be ready to gently explain why your faith in Christ leads you to chose to do some things and not others. 

I have been asked to go places and do things that I know would not honor God or my wife. So, I have to say no. Sometimes people want to know why. There is a difference between answering with gentleness and respect while telling the truth (calling sin sin) and condemning people without the offer of hope. If I respond in gentleness and respect a door is opened that the Holy Spirit uses. I guess you might say it leads to a redemptive conversation and there is nothing like seeing someone open up to Christ. The opportunity to see someone come to Christ is truly awesome. 

Father, help us to live by faith and respond in gentleness and respect to those who need you. Provide a redemptive conversation today! Praise be to you in us today!