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1 Peter 3:15 Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.
Being prepared to provide an answer for the hope that you have within you at any given moment is a challenge. It requires you to dig deep, to look within yourself to fully understand who God is, who you are, and the purpose He has for your life.
Some may say, “I’d love to always be prepared to provide an answer for the hope that I have. But I don’t feel like God has provided me with what I need to do that. To be honest, I’m not sure He has given me any specific purpose to fulfill.”
If that’s you, be encouraged that you’re not the only one! But also be encouraged that the Scriptures confirm that as a follower of Jesus, God has provided you with your own story. And one of the purposes of your story is to lift up and encourage others – both Christians and non-Christians alike.
Maybe the purpose God is inviting you to fulfill is to find simple ways to get started in the process. For example, maybe you can begin each day by praying, “God, today I ask for Your help in seeing how my story is part of Your grand story. How my story ties in with the Good News of Jesus.”
READING & PRAYERS:
1 PETER 3:13-17 (also read the commentary notes in your Study Bible of choice.)
QUESTION: On a scale of 1-10, how well do you know your story and how well it ties in with God’s grand story? When was the last time you shared your story and the reasons for the hope you have?
REAL LIFE PRACTICE: As you pray today, spend an equal amount of time listening to God as you spend talking to God. Perhaps listen even longer. Consider making this a part of your daily practices so you can discern God’s voice more clearly.
Take a Step: This week, consider utilizing the One Minute Pause app at least twice daily to begin practicing being with God and resting in His presence. The app is free, and is available on iPhone and Android devices. See pauseapp.com for details.
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, it’s easy for me to spend all of my time with people who are like me and those who already follow You. Thank You for the reminder that You have invited me to share the beauty of Your story with others. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
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