The Reason For Hope

1 Peter 3:15 But in your hearts set apart 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,

This verse ends in 16, hence the comma at the end. It's not a typo. :-)  Anyway, this is a great verse for my heart! Frankly, from 3:8 through 17 is all good, but I'll focus on this verse.  This is something that as the years have progressed and I have grown closer to Christ, I have gotten better at sharing my love for God out loud.  When I get the chance, or when people ask, I always try to give the glory to Him. This has been quite evident with my present situation and the peace that I have.  It is definitely of God, so it's easy to say it's Him.  However, sometimes it isn't an appropriate time or place to share in gentleness or might be disrespectful in a certain setting.  I always pray for discernment at those times because now I readily share God's work in my life.  I do believe the key in sharing is gentleness and respect, which is why it is attached to verse 15.  It is so important. The bigger question for today is, Is Jesus the reason for your hope? I pray that He is or that you will ask Him to be your hope.