Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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DEFEND YOUR HOPE WITH GENTLENESS

Bible Reading: 1Peter 3:13-18

Key verse:  

Verse 17: It is better if it is God's will, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil.

DEVOTION

     In Peter 3:13-18, we find a powerfull call to embody hope and gentleness in our interactions with others. The passage begins with a reminder that even in the face of suffering, we are blessed when we pursue good and maintain our integrity. This is a profound invitation to defend our hope not through aggression or argumentation, but through calmness and kindness.    This verse encourages us to be prepared to give an answer for our hope, yet to do so with gentleness and respect. This highlights the importance of demeanor; how we communicate our beliefs that  can  be impactful as the  beliefs themselves. In a world that can be harsh and combative, gentleness becomes a powerful tool for witness.
     Furthermore, the text reassures us that even if we face persecution for our faith, we are not alone.  Christ suffered for our sins, demonstrating that suffering can have a purpose and that our hope is rooted in His ultimate sacrifice.  This should inspire us to share our hope with others, reflecting the love and grace we have received.
    In defending our hope, we are called to embody Christ's love, even when we disagree, to be gentle and respectful.  This approach can open hearts and minds, allowing for meaningful conversations and deeper understanding. According to the text, gentleness serves several  important functions.  1. Approaching discussions with gentleness ensures that conversations remain respectful.  2. Gentleness mirrors the character of Christ, who exemplified compassion and kindness. 3.  Gentleness  encourages  a spirit of understanding rather than confrontation, paving the way for  a constructive  dialogue. 4. Gentleness can draw others to explore faith further, as it manifests a different approach than the often aggressive discourse seen in a  broader society.  In essence  it is not just a soft approach, it is a strategic and loving way to engage others about faith, promoting understanding and fostering a spirit of oneness.

                                                                      PRAYER

 Dear Lord, help us to embody hope and gentleness in our interactions with others. May our communications  promote a spirit of understanding with gentleness, rather than confrontation paving the way for a constructive dialogue.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY

  By defending our hope  with gentleness, we not only honor our faith, but also help others to explore the hope we have in Christ.


Dr. John K.Thomas   Tabor MTC NY

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