Daily Devotion, August 26th, 10

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, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander. – 1 Peter 3:15-16


Yet another scripture stressing the importance of discipleship. In this world, I have experienced that the atheist's are more zealous than the most religious of people. What Peter is saying here is not to make non-believers jealous of our love for Christ, but to witness our model, and feel ashamed that they aren't striving to be beacon's of light. Jealousy is a sin, some say it is a deadly sin. Jealousy doesn't lead a person to seek forgiveness, but to be hostile, and combative. Shame acknowledges wrongdoing, and as such, activates your conscience, and leaves one looking for something more, something to better themselves. This doesn't call for brute conversion here, just subtle glimpses at God's Kingdom.