Christian Devotional – June 29, 2023

Through Suffering, Day 12

Give a reason. Read 1 Peter 3:13-16.

During this time that the people were suffering, it may have seemed odd for Peter to have given them this advice. “Always be ready and able to give a reason for the hope that is in you.” They needed to be ready to give their testimony at a moment’s notice. They never knew who was going to ask why they were doing what they were doing. And still, going through all of the struggles that they were, why did they keep on? What kept them pushing forward even in the midst of such suffering?

The answer is their relationship with God. People continued on because they had the hope of Christ in their lives. They knew the difference that Christ made and the glory that God deserves and as a result, they were willing to do anything to see that happen, even if that meant their own suffering.

Still, the final reminder to share that information with gentleness and respect is important. When we tell others about Christ, we must do so with respect and through a gentleness because God wants to draw that person to themselves as well. Are we sharing our message and giving the reason for the hope that we have, and are we doing so in a way that reflects Christ’s heart for the people we’re sharing with?