"But do this with gentleness and respect.” ~1 Peter 3:15

“But in your hearts revere 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.” ~1 Peter 3:15

Do you know someone who can engage with a total stronger about Jesus where ever they go? The checkout girl at Walmart, the pizza delivery guy, the dental hygienist. Talking about Jesus to a stranger is hard for me. Door-to-door evangelism? No Way. Handing out tracts on the street corner? Nope.

I’ve learned that evangelism is a gift for some but not for everyone. As Darth Vadar would say, “The force is strong in that one”. BUT…we are to be ready to talk if asked. And read the end of that verse…answer with gentleness and respect. That can be difficult if the person starts to argue. When I was in college, a met a girl who practiced Bahai - I had no idea what that was and got on my high horse about Christianity. I pretty much butchered it, bothering me to this day, a zillion years later.

I learned from that. NO ONE wants religion shoved down their throat. And certainly not anger and self-righteousness. But a life centered around Jesus, a living hope evident in actions, kindness and joy…THAT is magnetic.

You can practice. Know what your favorite verse is and memorize it. Imagine conversations with people and rehearse in the shower or in your car. Search your memory for examples of how you’ve seen God in action. And PRAY! God will give you the words. What is fascinating to me is that He can have your listener hear whatever you MEAN to say, even if you stumble all over the place or say something wrong!