It may seem as if it is getting harder to make right choices. I mean when you can't even decide which bathroom to use at Target, life's outta whack. The needle on some people's offense meter simply never registers neutral, but soars from the extreme of I will ignore you for that comment, to now I'm gonna stare you down. I consider myself sensitive to others needs and I truly enjoy being kind, compassionate and giving. But I've actually found my kindness toward others as taken with offense. How does that happen? And then I'm conflicted... do I draw back in my shell and simply become selfish, self-serving and withdrawn? I think not. I'm so glad I found this advice from Peter... But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. “Do not fear their threats; do not be frightened.” But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander. 1 Peter 3:14-16 NIV Now that may sound... near the end, like sarcasm. But I don't think it's intended to. It's putting the onus on them. If we are truly of a kind heart, it's not our place to feel bad for kindness. What I LOVE, is the part about hope. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. For that means that to others, our HOPE should be evident... always. So much so, that they notice. How awesome is that. Is your HOPE evident? Do others see you as HOPEful? Do they know you have the HOPE of Christ... always? If not, I challenge you, today to spark some HOPE in your life. So that others will ask you about it. That's my challenge for self. I want to be prepared to be asked. I want my HOPE to be evident. Word of God train me today... To ever be HOPEful, and obvious! To be prepared to defend my HOPE with gentle and kind words.
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January 2019
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