+DEV+ Louder than Words

Date: June 19, 2012 11:55 PM
Topic: +DEV+   Louder than Words

 Louder than Words

"A man of knowledge uses words with restraint, and a man of understanding is even-tempered."  (Proverbs 17:27)
Scripture Focus: 1 Peter 3:10-15

When I talk with believing friends about sharing the good news of Jesus Christ, I find that a great fear is of saying the wrong words. We worry we won't have answers or that we'll be tongue-tied. Peter's charge for us to "always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have" (1 Peter 3:15) seems daunting.

But think of the comfort we have at two levels. First, it is Peter, of all people, urging us to be prepared to speak out about Jesus. Peter would certainly remember being caught off guard when asked if he was one of Jesus' followers (John 18:15-18). If the Lord restored Peter in his denial of Him, surely He will restore me in my reluctance (a form of denial, really) to speak out for Christ.

Secondly, Peter tells us to set apart Christ as Lord in our hearts (vs. 15). What will come out as my words must start in my heart. God put His Word into action through a person, Jesus, and that action has spoken much more loudly than words!

Insight: St. Francis Of Assisi Said, "At All Times Preach The Gospel; If Necessary, Use Words."