Focus

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,”

Whenever I heard this verse preached at youth group, or even in church, the emphasis was on being prepared to give an answer.  Know what you believe; don’t be scared; refuse to be intimidated.

But what is the motivation for being prepared to give an answer?  Guilt certainly doesn’t work; self-righteousness is hollow (and sinful, by the way).

The only true motivation is found in the first sentence:  But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord.

In my heart — not a decision on the outside, for show; a decision of the will, a wholehearted decision

Set apart — sanctify — my heart, my self, is not for “common” use anymore; I am set apart for holy use.  I belong totally to God

Christ as Lord — I am no longer in charge of my life.  I have a master; a Lord.  Obedience is my only option.

Then, I will be honored to give anyone who asks a reason for the hope that is in me.  And, I will do so with gentleness and respect,

Because my heart belongs to my Lord, Jesus Christ. . .

And I am so incredibly grateful that He chose me