Day 4 | 1 Peter 3.15
Two specific activities defined the early Church: telling others about Jesus and serving others. “With great power the apostles continued to testify to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus…there were no needy persons among them” (Acts 4.33-34). They didn’t just preach and they didn’t only meet needs—they did both and did them together.
Typically, we’re good at one or the other of these. We can either comfortably talk about our faith or are willing to jump and lend a hand whenever needed (probably most of us). But both are the highest priority. When we serve, we need 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). What we say is as important as what we do.
As you consider the next time you’ll meet a need, prepare—in advance—to “give an answer” as to why you’re serving. This will take time and planning to do well. One way is to simply engage those you’re serving in a conversation. As you listen, be open to the Spirit’s leading to speak of God’s grace. Be prepared to share your “story” from Day 2.
