Gospel Reflections #307: People Shall see Hope and Joy in Us

1 Peter 3:15 "Praise Christ as Lord in your hearts. And be ready at all times to give an account to anyone who demands an explanation of the hope you hold."

As in times of persecution, we too may be accused, criticized, and hurt over our faith. But Peter tells us not to fear or be disturbed by such people.

The person against us is not an enemy, but someone who does not know God.

Rather than looking at their actions and words and deeds to be swayed by our emotions, let us hide behind God's wings in our hearts instead of reacting to them.

And if they ask us to, let us talk about the hope that is in us.

The hope that is in us, that is, what we know and are convinced of who Jesus is, what He has done for us and what He will do for us, from the Bible, from our own experience, and by the Holy Spirit, and we should speak of these things gently and with modesty,If we can speak with a clear heart, we are witnessing to God.

Our testimony is not a tool to persuade or to argue with others. Our testimony is one of praise and joy to God.

Heartfelt praise and joy through experience leads to hope.

I believe that those around us are looking for that hope and joy. We can fill the world with joy in Christ. Share your hope and joy with those around you! No matter how small that hope and joy may be, the Holy Spirit will transform it into greater hope and joy when we share it.

This Gospel Reflections page is written by Masae San who lives in Hiroshima, Japan. She is a devoted student of the Bible who passionately embraces the Gospel of Jesus Christ. She shares her daily reflections on the Gospels as a way to reach out to others and spread the message of God's true love through the Christ-centered approach of Biblical Reflections. We're sharing her message here so that you too can experience the joy that comes from knowing and understanding the true Gospel message that has filled her heart.