Power of the Key Story:
Be Prepared – Part 3

Scripture Reading:  1 Peter 3:9-17

Key Verse: 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

Let’s wrap up this three day series on 1 Peter 3:15.  Peter starts the verse with the word always.  We are being told to be prepared, at all times, to give a testimony.  In other words, we never know when an opportunity may pop up for us to share a good word about our God and His Son Jesus.  It is imperative to get prepared and stay prepared to give the reason for our hope!

            After writing out our brief one page testimony, the point is not to carry it around to read it to people.  The point of writing it out is to help us be concise and quick with our main points.  Most opportunities to share with people won’t give us a lot of time.  In those limited moments of opportunity, we must get right to the most important points.  So we write out our testimony to remind us of those critical elements.  The Holy Spirit will use that to prompt you in what to say when given the opportunity to share!

            Finally, the apostle ends this challenge with this caution: “But do this with gentleness and respect.”  When a door of opportunity opens, walk cautiously into it and be respectful of the person’s feelings, time and beliefs.  Realize how it would feel if the tables were turned and you were on the receiving end.  Be prepared and be respectful—always!

Father, I pray for an opportunity to share with someone today.  Grant me wisdom and courage, along with your gentle spirit.  In Jesus’ Name, Amen.