Hope Series 13

Theme: Be Ready to Give Answer

1 Peter 3:15b "My ASL Version"
" . . . Be ready ... to give an answer to why you have HOPE that is in you . . ."

You face a lot of problems  and someone notice you and your faith in God. What is your secret that you don't give up so easily? What make you stand strong in all things? What kind of answer will you give to those who have been watching you and your life?

Let's read: 1 Peter 3:15a "But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord" (NIV).  First thing you have is Jesus Christ in your heart as your personal Savior. Because you have Jesus in your heart, then you are "ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh (keep asking) you a reason of the HOPE that is in you . . ." (KJV).

What did you have? You quietly trust in God as the Lord of all. You believe that Christ is truly in control of all events. You have HOPE in Christ and you are prepared to tell them what Jesus has done in your life.

We might say, "My hope in Christ is that He suffered when He died for our sins once for all time. He never sinned, but He died for sinners that He might bring us safely HOME TO GOD. He suffered physical death, but He was raised to life in the Spirit. Now Christ has gone to heaven and is seated in the place of honor next to God. He is waiting for us to come home and that is my "Blessed Hope."

Prayer Song: Make Me a Blessing
1. Out in the highways and byways of life
Many are weary and sad;
Carry the sunshine where darkness is rife (widespread).
Chorus:
Make me a blessing, make me a blessing,
Out of my life ... may Jesus shine;
Make me a blessing, O Savior I pray ...
Make me a blessing to someone today.

2. Tell the sweet story of Christ and His love;
Tell of His power to forgive;
Others will trust Him if only you prove
True every moment you live.
Chorus:
Make me a blessing, make me a blessing,
Out of my life ... may Jesus shine;
Make me a blessing, O Savior I pray ...
Make me a blessing to someone today.

3. Give as 'twas given to you in your need;
Love as the Master loved you;
Be to the helpless a helper indeed;
Unto your mission be true.
Chorus:
Make me a blessing, make me a blessing,
Out of my life ... may Jesus shine;
Make me a blessing, O Savior I pray ...
Make me a blessing to someone today.
(Lyrics: Ira Bishop Wilson; Music: George Stark Schulaer, Sing His Praise)

Oh wow, Lord! I pray that You make me a blessing to someone today!

Dorothy