God Was Testing Me
March 15, 2018//
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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.1 Peter 3:15 (NIV)
It was a trial run. God was testing me, preparing me for the real deal.
I received a compliment from a guy in my exercise class. “I like your cross” he said, referring to the necklace I wear every day. My hand rose to run the gold cross back and forth along the chain and I responded “Thank you, it was my mother’s.”
That was not a good answer.
That man may be searching for meaning. He may be curious and have questions. He may have spent weeks building up enough courage to start a casual conversation with someone who might have answers. And I just thanked him.
I missed an opportunity.
I should have responded with something like “Thank you, my faith is important to me” or “Thank you, it reminds me of God’s love”, or “Thank you, it shapes my perspective.” But I didn’t.
Thank goodness we continued talking about favorite classes, tight muscles, jobs and, eventually, to his real desire to do mission work. Bam! The conversation from there was awesome as we shared stories of God’s goodness, guidance, and activity in our lives. It was exciting stuff.
“Thank you” could have ended the conversation, but God was preparing me.
This trial run gave me a chance to think about a response that leaves the door open. Sure, hinting at faith might be an awkward conversation stopper, but he asked about my cross. Why not give it a try?
Always be ready to give a reason for your faith. (tweet this)
#SeedsofScripture #faith #missedopportunity #alwaysbeprepared
Spend a few minutes to plant a quick Seed. Or stay longer and plant a whole garden.
