Encountering an extraordinary God in ordinary life
Issue # 242 August 27, 2001
Pocketknives and Preparation

Thanks to those of you who wrote me yesterday to tell me the song I was thinking of was Thank you by Ray Boltz.

My son Kris, brought back a wonderful collection of souvenirs of his mission trip to Madagascar. He also brought back some gifts for the family.

He knows me well. He brought me a Bible in Malagasy (the primary language in Madagascar) because he knows I have a weakness for books, especially Christian related books.

He also brought me a Swiss army pocket knife. I’m one of those old fashioned people who virtually always has a pocket knife on me, even if I’m wearing a suit.

Carrying a pocket knife has come in handy more times than I can count. I guess it’s sort of like the old Boy Scout motto of “Be Prepared”.

Christians are called to be prepared:

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 NIV

Carrying a pocket knife is not the same as being prepared. If the knife is not sharp, it is of no use. I can’t cut a thing with a dull knife.

When I get a new knife, it takes time to get it ready. I need to sharpen it and hone it to a fine edge, so that when I want to use it, it will be ready.

It’s like that when we share our hope in Christ. First we need to understand that hope.

Spend time in the Scriptures and with God in prayer. Attend a solid Bible believing church with good teaching so that you understand what you believe.

Secondly, we need to have practiced sharing it. Begin with Christian friends and family. Tell them how God has changed your life and continues to work in you.

With a little work, you to will be prepared. When the opportunity comes, you will be ready to share the reason for your hope.

Until next time, may you have the opportunity to share the reason for your hope and joy.

God bless.

Kevin

Do you have hope? I do, because of my personal relationship with Jesus Christ.

You can have a relationship with Him as well. Email me and I’ll share a few Bible verses about why it is important and a prayer that will make it possible.