“But in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect, having a good conscience, so that, when you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ may be put to shame.” 1 Peter 3:15–16
Read 1 Peter 3:15–16
Lord, you have called us to always be ready to make a good defense to anyone who asks. We pray that you would empower Pastor Mark as he prepares his upcoming series. Enable him to present a good defense for the hope that is in him, but with gentleness and respect so that your name would be made much of. We pray that as your Word is held high, those who revile your truth would be put to shame. Make us good students of your Word so that you can prepare us to make a good defense of your Word as well.
Father, give us hearts that truly treasure and honor Jesus Christ our Lord, setting him apart as our greatest source of security and hope. We know that we cannot convince others of the truth of the gospel through our own intellect, winsomeness, or persuasion, but that you alone through the power of your Holy Spirit can change hearts and minds. When we meet challenges to our faith, help us to fall back to dependence on your power to give us a spirit of gentleness, respect, and a good conscience. We pray that we would never add fuel to the fire for those who slander the name of Christ, but that you would empower us to meet all attacks with gentleness and trust in Jesus.
Amen.
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