40 DAYS OF PRAYER – Youth Devotion, Day 34

PREPARED TO GIVE AN ANSWER – 1 PETER 3:15

When you enter a competition (for example, swimming, running, the math league, or choir ensemble), you go into training for the big day. You dedicate time every day to improve your-self so that you are ready for when the day comes. People see the effort you put in and want to  know  why  you’re  preparing  so  much,  and  since  it  is  a  passion  of  yours,  you  readily  and  lovingly explain to them why.

The same concept can be applied to your faith in Jesus. As you live with a Kingdom-focus and have your hope in Jesus, people will see a difference in you and want to know why you have this hope—be prepared. Abide in Christ (see John 15:1–10) and live with Him as Lord and King over everything in your life.

Knowing Jesus takes time and effort—just like preparing for your competition—because it is a personal relationship. Taking time each day to talk with Him and listen are vital to growing and being rooted in His love (see Colossians 2:6–7, Ephesians 3:17–19), and knowing the voice of  the  Holy  Spirit  (see  John  14:26).  Read  the  Word  of  God  and  allow  His  words  to  reign  in  your life (see Colossians 3:16) so that you know how to answer people gracefully and lovingly (see Colossians 4:5–6).

PRAYER POINTS:

1. What is your hope in? As you prayerfully consider this, also talk with Jesus about why you believe in Him, and ask Him to reveal Scripture to you to steady your foundation in Him.

2. Ask the Holy Spirit for boldness and the opportunities to share your faith and hope in Jesus with others.

3. As you encounter people, ask the Holy Spirit who He wants you to talk to, and follow His promptings—maybe it is with your neighbor, a classmate, or someone at the grocery store or library.