February 12

Every-day Religion

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, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who slander you may be put to shame by your good behavior in Christ. — 1 Pet 3:15-16 BSB

If every Christian lived up to the New Testament ideal—avoiding what Christ would avoid and striving to be what He would be—there would be little need for preaching. The beauty of the Christian character would be attractive enough to win people for Jesus Christ.

Let us examine ourselves by the standards in this chapter from 1 Peter (1 Peter 3:8-18). Do we have the mind of Christ, which makes us willing to be humble and sacrificial, even to the point of death for others? Are we compassionate, sharing in the joys and sorrows of others? Do we love the brethren, even if we don’t always like them, treating them kindly and placing their interests before our own? Are we tender-hearted and pitiful toward the afflicted and distressed? Are we courteous, with a true Christian politeness that surpasses the world’s manners? How do we respond to injury? Do we bless those who curse us, or do we retaliate with anger? Are we willing to leave our vindication in God’s hands?

Do you want a happy life and good days? Then trust God to vindicate you. Resist evil and live at peace with everyone as much as possible. Our greatest concern should be to enthrone Jesus Christ as Lord in our hearts (1 Peter 3:15). Is there a space in your heart reserved for Jesus alone, where you can say, “Other lords have ruled over me, but from now on, He alone is my King”? Be ready to give an answer for the hope that is in you. Peter once failed to do this, and we may also fail without the Holy Spirit’s help, but He will teach us what to say (John 14:26). Keep a clear conscience, one that can stand before both God and man without guilt. Follow the light of truth, obey the inner voice, and listen to the Spirit saying, “This is the way, walk in it.”

Prayer

Help me, O God, to live so that those who know me day by day may long to have the love and joy they see in me. Teach me how to apply heavenly principles to the ordinary things of daily life. Amen.