Day 27 — Always Ready

“But in your hearts sanctify Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give a defense to everyone who asks you the reason for the hope that is in you. But respond with gentleness and respect.”

— 1 Peter 3:15 (BSB)

Imagine a friend at school asks you, “Why do you go to church?” or “Do you really believe in God?” or “Why are you always so kind to everyone?”

What would you say?

Peter says to “always be prepared.” Be ready, so that when someone asks about your faith, you have something to say.

Notice what people will ask about: “the reason for the hope that is in you.” When you follow Jesus, you have a hope that other people might not have. You’re not afraid of death. You know you’re loved. You have peace in hard times. People notice that, and sometimes they get curious.

You don’t need to know all the answers to every hard question. You don’t need to be a Bible expert. You just need to be ready to share, simply and honestly, why you believe in Jesus and what He means to you.

Here’s one simple way to explain the good news:

• God made us and loves us.
• We have all sinned, which separates us from God.
• Jesus, God’s Son, died on the cross to pay for our sins, and He rose again.
• Anyone who trusts in Jesus is forgiven and becomes part of God’s family forever.

You could also just share what Jesus has done for you: how He helps you when you’re scared, how He forgave you, how He gives you peace.

And look at how Peter says to share: “with gentleness and respect.” Don’t argue or try to win. Don’t make fun of what other people believe. Don’t be pushy. Be kind. Listen to their questions. Treat them with respect, even if they disagree.

And if someone asks a question you can’t answer? It’s totally fine to say, “That’s a great question. I don’t know, but I’ll try to find out!” Then ask a parent or pastor.

The first part of the verse is important too: “In your hearts sanctify Christ as Lord.” That means making Jesus the most important person in your life. When He’s first in your heart, it will show, and people will want to know why.

Think about it: If a friend asked you, “Why do you believe in Jesus?” what would you say?

Try this: Practice! Tell a parent, sibling or friend the four-sentence version of the good news above, or write down what Jesus means to you in a few sentences.

Dear Jesus, help me make You the Lord of my heart. Help me always be ready to share the hope I have in You. Give me the right words, and help me share with gentleness and respect. In Your name, Amen.