1 Peter 3:15 But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:
Context: 1 Peter 3:13-14 Now who is there to harm you if you are zealous for what is good? 14But even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you will be blessed. Have no fear of them, nor be troubled 1 Peter 3:16-17 having a good conscience, so that, when you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ may be put to shame. 17For it is better to suffer for doing good, if that should be God’s will, than for doing evil.
From the lexicon: Sanctify=make holy, consecrate. Lord=master. Defense=a speech in defense. Hope=expectation. Meekness=gentleness. Fear=reverence, respect.
1 Peter 3:15 admonishes us to put God first in our hearts and to be ready to give a reason for the hope and expectation that we have and do so in gentleness and with respect. This is such a key to effective witness. We are called to live rightly before others, not giving reason for accusations against us and to have a good conscience, fulfilling our responsibilities toward others. When we do so we are in the positionto answer others when they ask about our faith.
But when we answer the reason is to be given in meekness/humility not in pride or giving opportunity for the impression we are better than others. Meekness conveys that we are not perfect, just forgiven. That’s what it is all about. We are but sinners, saved by grace. This is our hope. Jesus died for sinners. Our place in heaven is not based on our good works, but on what He did on the Cross at Calvary.
Lord I pray for grace to maintain faith and to be ready to speak out for You in meekness and with respect.